The netting placed over newly seeded lawn areas is typically an erosion control blanket or straw mat designed to promote successful turf establishment. These temporary covers consist of organic fibers like straw or wood excelsior held together by a mesh netting, which can be either biodegradable or synthetic. The primary function of this protective layer is to stabilize the soil surface against wind and rain erosion, preventing the displacement of fresh grass seed. It also helps retain moisture near the soil line, creating a humid microclimate that encourages faster seed germination and protects young seedlings.
Indicators of Sufficient Grass Establishment
Determining the precise moment to remove the netting depends entirely on the maturity of the grass’s root system, not just the height of the blades above ground. A reliable indicator of sufficient establishment is when the new grass blades have reached a height of approximately two to three inches. The turf must be structurally strong enough to withstand both the stress of removal and the initial impact of mowing equipment.
A practical test is to gently tug on the grass in a few different spots; the established seedlings should resist the pull, indicating that the roots have anchored securely into the topsoil. The grass must have successfully completed its first few mowings, which typically occurs around six to eight weeks after seeding, signaling a robust root structure capable of tillering and thickening. This process of tillering—where new shoots grow from the base—builds turf density, showing that the grass is ready to stabilize the soil without the blanket’s assistance.
Waiting until the lawn has been mowed at least twice confirms the seedlings have the necessary vigor and depth to survive the removal process. Once the turf forms a dense canopy, the risk of erosion is greatly reduced, and the netting transitions from a protective measure to a potential obstruction. Removal before this stage risks pulling up the fragile, shallow roots of the developing plants.
Step-by-Step Guide to Synthetic Netting Removal
For netting made from synthetic materials, such as polypropylene or plastic, removal is necessary because these materials will not degrade and can cause significant damage to lawnmower blades. The process requires patience and precision to avoid tearing up the newly established turf. Gather a sharp utility knife or pair of shears and containers ready for the collected material.
Begin by carefully cutting the netting into smaller, more manageable strips, typically three to four feet wide. This segmentation prevents the entire blanket from shifting or snagging as you work, which could uproot large sections of grass. Starting at one edge, gently lift the netting, peeling it back slowly while observing the grass underneath. If you notice a significant amount of grass being pulled out, stop and cut the strip even narrower to reduce the tension.
As you lift each piece, pay close attention to the metal staples or pins used to anchor the netting to the ground. These must be collected and removed completely, as they pose a serious hazard to lawnmower blades and can be a tripping risk. Carefully roll the cut strips of synthetic material, along with the collected pins, and dispose of them properly. Working slowly ensures minimal disturbance to the young, developing root system.
When Netting Should Be Left Alone
The need for removal is entirely dependent on the composition of the netting, as many products are specifically designed to be left in place. Biodegradable erosion control blankets are constructed using natural fibers like straw, wood fiber, jute, or coir, and are held together with a mesh that is also intended to decompose. These materials break down naturally over a period ranging from a few weeks to several months, depending on the material and local environmental conditions.
Attempting to remove a biodegradable blanket is counterproductive because the new grass will have grown through and intertwined with the mesh, inevitably disturbing the seedlings. The decomposing fibers also contribute organic matter back into the soil as they break down, which benefits the long-term health of the turf.