Covering newly planted grass seed with an appropriate mulch significantly improves germination success. This protective layer creates a microclimate that prevents the delicate seeds from drying out, a common cause of failure in new lawns. The mulch also prevents wind and heavy rainfall from washing away or displacing the seeds. Additionally, it deters birds from consuming the recent planting. Finding the right material ensures a dense, healthy stand of new grass.
Choosing the Best Mulch for Grass Seed
The material used must be lightweight and clean, allowing sunlight and air to reach the soil while preventing the introduction of unwanted plants. Standard hay, dried grass or legumes used for animal feed, is unsuitable because it is filled with seeds that will sprout into weeds. Instead, focus on true straw, the dry stalk remaining after grain (such as wheat, oat, or barley) has been harvested. Wheat straw is the most common and effective choice.
Even traditional straw bales can contain residual grain seeds that may sprout and compete with new grass seedlings. For best results, homeowners should seek specialized, weed-free seed mulch products. These are often processed straw that has been chopped and treated to eliminate viable seeds. Some products include a natural tackifier, a binding agent that helps the straw cling together and to the soil, which is beneficial on sloped or windy areas.
Alternative products include straw mat rolls or processed wood and paper fiber mulches, often referred to as hydromulch alternatives. Straw blankets are biodegradable rolls secured with netting, designed for erosion control on hillsides where loose straw would be unstable. These specialized processed mulches and blankets offer a clean, seed-free option. They break down over time, eliminating the need for manual removal.
Retailers and Suppliers for Seed-Starter Straw
A variety of retailers carry the necessary materials, ranging from large-scale chains to local specialty shops. Large national home improvement stores are the most accessible option, typically stocking convenient bagged, processed straw mulches. These bags are often branded as “seed-starter straw” and frequently contain a tackifier, making them a popular choice for residential projects.
For those requiring larger quantities, farm and feed supply stores are often the best source. These retailers typically sell full-sized, loosely packed straw bales that offer the best value per cubic foot. When purchasing a full bale, confirm that the straw is from wheat or oats and not hay, as the risk of weed seeds is higher with unprocessed material.
Local garden centers and independent nurseries can be a valuable source for premium, high-quality products. They often carry the more specialized, smaller-bale options or the erosion control blankets. These local businesses can also provide expert advice on the best mulch for a region’s specific grass seed blend and climate conditions. Lastly, online suppliers offer an extensive range of specialized erosion control blankets and compressed mulch pellets.
Calculating Coverage Needs
Accurately determining the amount of straw needed prevents waste and the risk of smothering new seedlings. Calculate the total square footage of the area by multiplying the length by the width. A standard small square bale, typically weighing 40 to 80 pounds, generally provides light coverage for 500 to 1,000 square feet. This variance depends on the bale’s density and the desired application rate.
The application must be thin enough to allow light penetration for the grass seed to germinate. A reliable rule of thumb is to apply the straw so that 50 to 75 percent of the underlying soil is still visible. If the soil is completely obscured, the layer is too thick. This thickness blocks sunlight, traps too much moisture, and can lead to fungal growth that kills emerging grass.
For packaged products, the coverage area is clearly labeled on the bag, often indicating a capacity of 500 square feet per unit. When using these materials, adhere closely to the manufacturer’s stated coverage rate to achieve the correct density. Purchasing the correct amount ensures maximum protection and moisture retention without suffocating the new lawn.