Calculating Bermuda Grass Seed
Bermuda grass withstands the heavy traffic and abuse from sports field use. In most cases, the warm season perennial is planted alongside a cool weather perennial such as ryegrass. Reseeding Bermuda grass is best done during the late spring to early summer. After the seed is sown, proper irrigation causes the seed to germinate in seven to 14 days. During this time all activity on the newly planted seed must be suspended, allowing the young seedlings to take root and mature.
List:
Soil test
Tape measure
Fertilizer
Agricultural lime
Organic matter
Bermuda seed (varieties for your climate)
Drop spreader
Irrigation
Mower
Collect soil samples from several locations around the sports field. Mix the soil together and dry. Deliver the soil sample to your local agricultural extension service for analysis. Consult with them on the best Bermuda grass seed varieties for your climate and application.
Measure the size of the sports field. Take the overall width and length measurements to determine the total square footage in 1,000 square feet increments.
Apply the proper amounts of fertilizer, agricultural lime and organic matter to the sports field area based upon the soil test results. All application rates are based upon the area in 1,000 square foot increments. Follow all labeling directions on the chemical packaging.
Spread the Bermuda grass over the field at an application rate of 1/2 lb. to 1 lb per 1,000 square feet. Load half of the seed into the spreader. Run the unit in one direction, east to west. Place the remaining seed into the drop spreader and run the unit across the field in a 90-degree angle, north to south, to the first.
Irrigate the seed, fertilizer and soil amendments immediately into the soil. Keep the soil moist to a depth of 1/2 to 1 inch deep. Apply water three times daily. Once the seedlings are 1 to 2 inches high reduce irrigation frequency to once a day.
Mow the new seedlings once a few sprouts reach 1 inch in height. Set the mower between 1 to 1 1/2 inches high. Keep the Bermuda grass mowed and well moistened. Mowing stimulates root growth.
Words to the Wise:
Keep all people and animals from the sports field area when applying any form of chemicals to the grass.
Read all label directions when applying fertilizer to determine the active life of the chemical ingredients.
