On 24 Aug 2006 09:51:35 -0700, "bthiede"
wrote:

I am about to start a new lawn and wanted to get some recommendations
on seed. I have read several places that you should buy the best you
can - trying to save money on the seed isn't worth it in the long run.
So, what brand/type is the best? Is there anything I should look for
besides the lowest percentage of weeds? I think that is listed on
every package, correct? I am probably looking to get a fescue or
fescue/bluegrass mix.

Determine the best seed for your location. What grows well in Georgia
may not grow well in Michigan. Look for a dated package that not more
than 1 year old.

I have also read that seed can degrade in the heat and over time.
Where is the best place to get fresh/well kept seed? Would Lowe's or
Walmart be good enough? Are there good internet dealers?


You should use the seed within a year, six months is better. Store
the seed in a cool dry place. Any store should be good. Internet
sales would probably have rather costly shipping expenses.

Also, I am tilling up what grass and weeds I currently have on the site
and fertilizing before planting. I have already killed it all with
roundup. Do I need to remove all the dead grass and weeds, or can I
leave them in the soil after tilling? Seems to me they would just add
some organic material (which the soil could use).

The danger in this method is weed seeds. Crabgrass seeds can remain
dormant for 10 years. Have your soil tested to find out if it needs
potash, nitrogen, lime, etc. Well composted manure would be a good to
till into the soil.