INSTALLATION - EXISTING LAWN

Installation Guide for Pearl’s Premium Lawn Seed
Transform your lawn into a lush, eco-friendly, and ultra-low-maintenance landscape by following these step-by-step instructions. Whether you're over-seeding an existing lawn or starting fresh, proper installation ensures long-term success.

Over-Seeding an Existing Lawn
Pearl’s Premium grass seed will out-compete existing lawns when properly installed and maintained. Follow these instructions for the best results.

Simplified Steps for Over-Seeding Unhealthy Lawns:

  1. Mow Lawn Extremely Short – Cut it down to the dirt using a dull mower blade.
  2. Rake Away Debris – Remove grass clippings and dislodged thatch.
  3. Spread Pearl’s Premium Seed – Follow the seeding rate indicated on the back of the bag.
  4. Apply Nutrients – Use an organic fertilizer or compost tea to support root growth.
  5. Water Regularly for One Month – Water morning and evening. After establishment (if seeded in spring), water once a week through the first summer.
  6. Follow Maintenance Guidelines – Mow properly and keep the soil healthy.
  7. Over-Seed Again Next Season – This will further strengthen your lawn and outcompete any old grass.

Detailed Instructions for Over-Seeding a Healthy Lawn
For the ultimate green lawn, follow these additional steps:

Step 1: Prepare Your Lawn

  • Mow Low – Cut your lawn and weeds to 1 inch or less using a dull blade. This helps weaken existing grass.
  • Apply Organic Weed Killer – Use Phydura (available at Pearl’s Premium) or another organic grass killer. Wait 3 days after the final spray before seeding.
  • OR Apply Topsoil – If you prefer, spread 1 inch of fresh topsoil over the lawn to block sunlight and kill existing grass.

Step 2: Improve Soil Health

  • Rake Deeply in Fall – Use a steel rake (or rent a dethatcher for large lawns) to remove thatch and clippings. In spring, rake lightly to avoid exposing weed seeds.
  • Test & Adjust Soil pH – Apply pelletized lime if needed to reach a pH between 6-7 (general guideline: 40 lbs per 1,000 sq. ft.). A balanced pH promotes healthy grass growth and discourages weeds.
  • Core Aerate – Use a core aerator (not a spike aerator) to improve air and water flow to the roots. For compacted soil or poor drainage, aerate twice per year. Otherwise, once per year is sufficient.

Step 3: Apply Pearl’s Premium Seed

  • Add Organic Fertilizer – Use an organic starter fertilizer or ¼ inch compost for extra nutrients.
  • Seed at Proper Rate – Spread 8 lbs per 1,000 sq. ft. for a thick lawn. Use a spreader in two directions for even coverage.
  • Lightly Rake & Roll Seeds – Rake seeds into the soil and use a ¼-full lawn roller to press them in for better soil contact.

Step 4: Watering Schedule

  • First 3 Weeks – Water twice daily (morning & afternoon) for 20-30 minutes per session. Avoid watering in the evening to prevent fungal disease.
  • Weeks 4-6 – Reduce watering to every other day as the lawn establishes.
  • After 6 Weeks – Water deeply once a week (if needed in summer). If seeded in fall, stop watering after 1 month.

Ongoing Maintenance & Over-Seeding

  • Over-Seed Next Season – Mow with a sharp blade and cut in stages, reducing height gradually to 1 inch before overseeding again.
  • Mow High – Keep your lawn at least 3 inches tall for weed resistance. Cutting high with a sharp blade ensures better root development.
  • Aerate Annually – Aerate once a year to keep soil healthy and prevent compaction.
  • Natural Weed Control – Expect some weeds in the first year since Pearl’s Premium grows slowly. Over-seed, aerate, and cut high with a sharp blade to suppress weeds naturally.

FAQs & Additional Support

  • Need More Help? Visit our FAQ page for detailed answers.
  • Looking for a Professional Installer? Contact Us to find a trusted lawn installation expert.

Transform Your Lawn Today!
Ready for a lush, chemical-free, low-maintenance lawn? Get started with Pearl’s Premium today!

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