Sowing seeds directly in the garden or lawn is the easy part. Getting them to germinate is not usually as easy. With the help of mulch, you can improve germination rates so that you can grow a successful garden or lawn. Mulch helps conserve moisture so the seeds and soil do not dry out or get too hot, especially when seeds are sown in summer. It also deters birds from pecking at seeds. At the same time, mulch can decrease germination rates if it is not properly applied. So careful application of mulch after sowing seeds is a must.
Select a mulch to apply. Weed-free straw or hay is a good mulch to use to cover large areas, such as when seeding a lawn. Sawdust, peat moss, grass clippings, compost or vermiculite works well for smaller spaces. Mulch should be light and airy, not heavy like wood chips or chunks of bark.
Spread mulch over the seeds, applying it no more than 1/4 inch thick. Carefully spread straw or hay by hand, being sure it does not clump in any one area. For other mulches, apply with a mulch or peat moss spreader if possible. Fill with a mulch and push the spreader over the garden or lawn so it spreads a thin layer of mulch over the seeds.
Water the seeds with approximately 1/2 inch of water to moisten them, the mulch and the soil after sowing. Maintaining constant moisture is a must when germinating seeds.
Things You Will Need
- Garden hose
- Mulch or peat moss spreader
- Kansas State University: Planting a Home Lawn
- University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources: Establishing a Lawn From Seed
- Washington State University Extension: Propagating Plants From Seed
- University of California: July Gardening Tips for Los Angeles County Residents
- Texas Cooperative Extension: Fall Seed Planting For Spring Color
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