Hydro Mulching – Efficient Lawn Planting

Hydro mulching is an efficient method of planting grass. It is more economical than traditional sodding and provides a fast way to plant grass over a large area.

Hydro mulching is done by mixing grass seed, mulch, fertilizer and water in a large tank. The resulting mixture is sprayed on the ground where initial growth is encouraged by the ideal conditions provided by the mixture.

When applied to smooth ground, the resulting grass will have a neat and manicured appearance. Hydro mulching is ideal for golf courses which require smooth surfaces.

Since the mixture which is applied by Hydro mulching is weed free, the initial growth will also be weed free. However, there may be weed seeds present in the soil which will grow after the initial application.

The mulching material of the mixture is composed of processed wood or paper. The fibrous nature of the mulch inhibits soil erosion. It is usually dyed green. This allows the operator to apply the mixture evenly while Hydro mulching and also has an aesthetically more pleasing appearance.

In addition to inhibiting soil erosion, Hydro mulching retains moisture in the soil which is necessary for the seeds to germinate. Sometimes the mulch is enhanced through the use of a tackifier - a substance which “glues” the soil to the mulch.

Hydro mulching has many applications. It is ideal for planting large areas of grass along Highway construction sites and reclaimed mine sites. It is seeing increased use in residential lawn planting for new lawns. It is also frequently used in the construction of new golf courses.

Hydro mulching can be used to quickly establish grassy areas. Under ideal conditions, the grass will be ready to cut within three or four weeks. Well established turf that can withstand the conditions of playing football can be established within three months.

Hydro mulching is much cheaper than sod application and much more environmentally friendly. Sod farming strips the most valuable top layer of soil and requires intensive chemical fertilization. Applying grass seed through Hydro mulching is much less labor-intensive than laying sod. Although more expensive than simple seeding, Hydro mulching has a higher “take” rate - more seeds will actually grow.

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