"Do not use a “weed & feed” type product or pre-emergent before hydro-mulch applications. These products will actually impede seed growth."

Hydro-Seeding and Erosion Control

Hydro-mulching, sometimes called hydro-seeding, is a grass planting process. This process is considerably more effective than conventional seeding, and less expensive than sodding.

The process consists of combining seed, fertilizer and a specialized mulch material together. This mixing is done within the tank of a specially designed machine. Once the mix has been prepared, it is then pumped from the hydro-mulch machine unto the ground. Once the mix has been applied, the ground looks as if a layer of green foam has been applied.

Proper watering is crucial in establishing a beautiful hydro-mulched lawn. Too little water and the seed or seedlings simply “dry up” and die. Too much water over a given period of time, and the water run-off will cause the seed to be washed away. Therefore, it can be said that the mulch material is the most important component of the mixture. The mulch provides a “micro-environment” beneficial to seed germination in two primary ways. Firstly, because moisture is vital during all stages of seed germination and grass development, the mulch reduces moisture evaporation. Secondly, it provides resistance to erosion, caused by excessive watering or rainfall, which causes the seed to be washed away.

Understanding the significance of proper mulch application, Irrigation, Grass & More utilizes awood based mulch, unlike the cheaper paper mulch, used by most companies. Wood fibers are longer and coarser, and have been proven to retain moisture for longer periods, during drier seasons. Also, because wood fibers decompose more slowly, they provide longer periods of protection, lasting six months or more. Paper mulch is typically indistinguishable after a few weeks.

Hydro-mulching mixtures are usually weed-free. However, areas that are hydro-mulched often experience some weed growth. This occurs because weed seed is always present in the soil. When the water and fertilizer from the hydro-mulch mixture is applied to the soil, weeds begin to grow. Therefore, we recommend that whenever possible, weeds be killed with a systemic killer, and the soiled be prepared before the hydro-mulch mixture is applied. Do not use a “weed & feed” type product or pre-emergent before hydro-mulch applications. These products will actually impede seed growth.

Pros

Cons*

** Ask about our Grass Grow Guarantee**

*In order to make hydro-mulching a viable option for most customer, Irrigation Grass & More offers service to minimize these disadvantages. These services include weeding, soil preparation, sprinkler system installation and our own “Grass Grow Guarantee”.