The Grass Doctor

Do I need to pack down soil before and/or after I plant grass seed?

Please read the following before answering, thank you. I have planted grass before, and I know there's certain steps to take to plant grass. I only need help in a few spots. I got a delivery of fertalized soil and I put the soil in the area that I'm planting grass. The area is about 20' by 15'. The soil has about an inch + of layer. I raked the soil to make sure it's nice and level. Now this is where I get confused... Do I need to pack down the soil, meaning, right now the soil is lose enough where you step on it you sink very little. If I do need to pack the soil please tell me how to I only have basic tools to work with. Next I know the soil has to be lose to mix grass seed in with then rake it so the seeds fall into the soil a little bit, but do I need to pack down the soil after the seeds are planted? Or is the soil supposed to be lose. Thank you to those who answer. Please provide any websites if you can, thank you.

Public Comments

1. No, do not pack it down hard. Having the soil a bit loose will make it easier for the new roots to grow.
2. You do not need to pack the soil. Keeping it loose will help the little grass roots get down into it better. Once you have the soil smoothed the way you want, keeping drainage in mind, simply spread the grass seed evenly on top. You can LIGHTLY rake the seed into the very top of the soil to help the seeds make good contact with it. Some people put down straw to cover. I find it messy, even in the straw blankets, and it's not really necessary as long as you maintain even moisture levels during germination. Only use the less-messy blankets if you need to control erosion while the seeds germinate and grow good roots. Make sure you water lightly a couple of times a day until the seeds sprout and the next week or so after (depending on weather). Gradually, increase the depth of watering and reduce the frequency until the grass is established. Your local university should have a county extension office to visit for info, or you can find more information on their website. For example: I live in Michigan. The Michigan State University Extension office website is www.msue.msu.edu I hope this helps.