The Mahnomen Pioneer

Late Summer Is Good Time To Seed Lawns

Late summer is a good time to seed lawns in Minnesota, or to begin preparing them for seeding next spring, according to L. E. Longley, landscaping specialist, University Farm, St. Paul. From the middle of April to the middle of May is probably the best time to seed, but the next best is late summer, not later, however, than the first week in September.

Fall seeding has one advantage over spring seeding, in that grass grows well, while most weeds do not. In this climate, however, if seeding is delayed much after September 1, the plants do not get well started before the cool weather sets in, and winter killing results.

Although the lawn is not to be seeded until later in the fall or even until next spring, now is a good time to kill the weeds. By frequent stirring, the weed seeds will be encouraged to germinate, after which the seedlings may be destroyed.

Moreover, frequent hoeing or harrowing, continued for several weeks, will result not only in a clean seed bed, but in one that is firm and fine and therefore ideal for seeding in the fall.

Much helpful information about the seeding and handling of lawns may be had from Special Bulletin 130, "Making the Home Lawn" written by Mr. Longley. Copies may be had free from the Mailing Room University Farm, St. Paul.