Question
QUESTION: My question is for northwest Ohio which is perfect since I'm am in the Buckeye state and you are a Buckeye.
I am putting a new lawn in a large area(1.5 acres). I have starter fertilizer and am not sure when to put this down. All instructions say BEFORE seeding. Is this the same day,a week before or when? Also, today is the last day of August so when should I start putting seed down?

ANSWER: Jack:

The fertilizer should be in the soil when the plants need it.  That is the only requirement of which I am aware.  If grading and removal of filth has to be done, I would wait until that is done so that fertilizer is not removed also and the final finished grade is achieved.  It is a high analysis and must be slow release to protect seedlings, but the Scott's website does not specify this.

Yes, a Buckeye.  Now, an important question:
Do you root for the Tribe or the Tigers being so close to Detroit?

Best wishes.


---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks for the info on the fertilizer and so far so good. I am working final grade and should complete that tomorrow. Now when is the best date to put the seed down.

About the Teams: Tribe & Browns no question! Been that for 30 years.

ANSWER: Jack:

The answer is anytime the ground is ready.  In Ohio, the best time is September, as I remember.  However, I usually wait until the temperatures drop bewteen 55 and 75 deg F and rain looks promising.   Remember that bluegrass needs a month to germinate, by the book.

If rain falls lightly and infrequently, seed may begin to germinate and die in a short dry spell.  Overseeding later will take care of this, anytime in the winter is OK.

Go Tribe!  Bust 'em up, Browns.  Me too, although forty-six years a near redneck.  Been a fan since my dad took me to see Paul Brown, Otto Graham, and the 1948 World Champion team of Indians.

Best.


---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks for the help. My seed and fertilizer are all in the ground. That makes it the 1st week of Sept. so I think I am right on. Rain on its way and temps will be pulling back to 70's by next week. I plan to keep watering even if we hit a dry spell since we want grass so bad.
Any tips on watering? I am using sprinklers and using a soft setting. I just am not sure what amount of water is needed each day?

Answer
Jack:

Just keep the ground moist, or damp below the surface so the seed can have moisture.  If you water enough, the dew will help in the morning.  The moisture will move from the soil, up and should keep the seed wet enough to germinate.  With cooler temps, the moisture stays in the ground and at ground level better than in summer.

It is said that one inch of rain/water per week is good for an established lawn.  Just use your judgement.  
You can tell when the soil is dry.

Be sure not to drown it.  Too much water can bring fungus.

Best of luck.