Seeding a lawn takes time, but it’s considerably less expensive than laying sod. It’s a good choice if you want to grow grass in a not-so-sunny area where a shade-loving seed will grow the best. In fact, you’ll get the best results by choosing seed suited to the soil and other site conditions, and preparing it before you start. For advice, consult your local lawn and garden center or your Master Gardener’s county extension program.
The work required to prepare the soil for grass seed depends on its condition. Loosen the soil and rake it and remove weeds and rock, and then smooth the surface so it’s level. You may need to add new topsoil and turn the soil if it’s rock-hard. If hand tools won’t break it up, you may want to rent a rotary tiller to loosen it.
You’ll need a rake and hand gardening tools for weeding, a drop or broadcast spreader to apply the seed, and a garden hose and sprinkler. To protect the new sprouts from heavy rain or high winds, cover them with a fine layer of hay. Remove the hay with a rake when the new seeds are strong and can stand on their own.
A landscaper will charge $760 to prepare the soil and seed a 2,000-square-foot lawn. You can buy the seed and do it yourself for $130, and save 83 percent. It’ll cost more if the soil requires topsoil and more labor, either yours or that of a landscaper service.
To find more DIY project costs and to post comments and questions, visit www.diyornot.com and m.diyornot.com on smartphones.
Pro Cost—DIY Cost—Pro time—DIY Time—DIY Savings—Percent Saved
$760—$130—16.0—17.5—$630—83 percent
