So, you've recently planted grass seed, but now you're wondering: "What am I supposed to do next?" Not to worry. We can help.

Watering New Grass

After you've planted your grass seed, it should be kept constantly moist but not soggy wet. This means misting it with water at least twice a day, usually in the morning and again at mid-day. You may need to mist with water more frequently if the weather is hot and dry. If your grass seed dries out after it has started to sprout, it will die out. Once your new grass is established, the planted area is dense and green, and you've mowed at least once, you can start watering less frequently.

Mowing Newly Seeded Grass

Whether you've seeded bare spots or a whole lawn, hold off on mowing the area until the new grass has reached a mowing height, between 3 and 3½ inches. Make sure your mower blade is nice and sharp, and then cut your grass only when it's dry. Avoid mowing your new grass too short - removing no more than ⅓ of the height. If you've overseeded your existing lawn, you can mow as needed, but try to cut back the frequency to limit traffic on the new seedlings.

Feeding New Grass

Feeding is important for all lawns, but it's especially important for new grass plants. If you didn't feed your new grass when it was planted, apply Scotts® Turf Builder® Starter® Food for New Lawns. It will provide the right nutrients in the proper proportions that new grass plants need to grow in thick and develop deep, strong roots. If you applied a Starter® lawn food when you planted your new grass, feed again 6-8 weeks later with Scotts® Turf Builder® Lawn Food to help keep your new grass growing thick and green. Continue with regular feedings every 6-8 weeks to provide the nutrients your lawn needs to help crowd out weeds and withstand the stresses of heat, drought, and normal wear and tear.

Weeds in Your New Grass

It happens. Weeds pop up now and then among newly planted grass. That's because dormant weed seeds are always present in the soil, and they're waiting to sprout when they get a chance. A good rule of thumb is to wait until you've mowed your new grass at least 4 times before you treat the weeds with weed-control products. The exception would be if you are using a weed-control product specifically designed to be used when seeding. As always, remember to always read and follow the product label directions for specific information about the weed-control product you are using.