Nothing beats the feeling of walking barefoot on fresh, green grass early in the morning!
But if you have just planted grass seeds, it is best that you wait till the grass is ready to take the pressure of human and animal traffic. After all, patience is a virtue, and this idiom holds true in this situation as well.
So, if you’re wondering, “when can I walk on new grass?” I’ve got just the guide for you.
When Can I Walk On New Grass?
Usually, you must wait for four weeks after seeding to avoid damaging and uprooting seedlings and fragile grass sprouts. Additionally, it is best to mow the grass at least 3-5 times before walking on it.
Precautions To Take Before Walking On New Grass
1. Let The Grass Grow Before Mowing
Although I mentioned mowing several times before walking on new grass, you must ensure that the grass is tall enough in the first place. Mower wheels and blades can kill new grass and rip off seedlings if they are too delicate. Hence, check if the grass is at least 3.5 inches tall before mowing it for the first time.
Another point to keep in mind is to set the blade height as high as possible. So, you shouldn’t cut any more than half an inch of the new grass.
2. Stay Away From Newly Seeded Areas
Seedlings and new grass sprouts are extremely fragile and prone to damage. Despite being under the soil, human and animal weight can destroy the newly seeded ground. So, even if you can’t see the new grass germinating, it’s best to avoid going anywhere near it.
A pro tip would be to install a sprinkler to water the area instead of doing it manually. This will reduce foot traffic considerably while watering the seedlings at regular intervals.
3. Check Pet Traffic
Our furry friends also need physical activity on a daily basis. But with a newly seeded lawn, I suggest you opt for long walks in public places and sidewalks. Also, create an alternative space for them to relieve themselves.
4. Prevent Children From Playing On New Grass
New grass will not be able to handle the weight of young children, too. So, try taking your kids to the local park or let them stay in for a while. This way, the new grass will get ample time to grow and strengthen, and before you know it, your kids will get a lush, green garden to explore!
5. Mow Several Times
By now, you already know the ideal length of the grass for mowing. So, try mowing it 3-5 times every time it reaches the said height. This will strengthen the grass for regular traffic and reinforce the roots so that they are not easily ripped off.
Final Words
And that’s my go-to routine to ensure a fresh, green lawn every year and prevent grass death as much as possible. With a little bit of care and maintenance, you will be able to enjoy long walks on dewy grass every morning while your kids will find the perfect play area!
I hope this guide helped you learn a thing or two about planting and maintaining new grass. Stay tuned because I’ll be back with another short guide soon.
Until then, happy gardening!