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How to Manage Pests

The UC Guide to Healthy Lawns

Replant with seed, sod, sprigs, stolons, plugs

Patch your lawn with seed or vegetatively from sod, stolons, sprigs, or plugs. Be sure to choose an appropriate species for your conditions.

Seed

When the soil has been properly prepared, plant seed by hand at the appropriate time and rate for your species.

  • On bare areas, sow at a higher rate than recommended.
  • Cover the seed to a depth of 1/16 to 1/8 inch by raking it in and lightly rolling or firming the soil.
  • For summer turf establishment, spread a thin layer of mulch (no more than 1/4 inch thick) over the seeds with a rake for protection.
  • Keep the soil moist during the germination period by applying frequent but light irrigations.

Sod

  • Cut pieces to fit the area you need and lay them down.
  • Use a sharpened masonry trowel or carpet knife to cut pieces.
  • After the sod is laid, roll it immediately with a lawn roller and keep it moist until well rooted.

Sprigs, stolons, or plugs

  • Plant sprigs and stolons fairly close together, about 4 inches apart, to help fill in the area.
  • Plant plugs about 2 to 4 inches apart.
  • Be sure to cover the roots with soil.
  • After planting, keep the area moist and weed free until the grass becomes established.

Comparison of planting methods

Next step to patching your lawn

Lawn care for new lawns

Photo of scattering seed by hand

Photo of cutting a piece of sod with a utility knife

Photo of laying a patch of sod

Photo of planting with stolons

 


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