Using Grama Grass in the Garden

You don't need an expert to plant grass. Here are easy step-by-step instructions for preparing and sowing grama grass seed.

'Low Work and Water' Dwarf Fescue Lawn Seed Mix
Item # 52000 		Low Work and Water Dwarf Fescue Lawn Seed Mix

each $36.95
Bouteloua gracilis 'Hachita'
Item # 27056 		Bouteloua gracilis 'Hachita'
Blue Grama Grass Seed

each $18.95

Item # 99580 		'The Western Trails' Native Grass Seed Mix

1 lb. bag $17.95

Item # 99595 		'The Western Trails' Wildflower Seed Mix

each $29.95
  • Topic: Grasses and Lawns
  • Author: Cindy Bellinger
  • Keywords: grama, gramma, grass, native grass seed, low water lawns, grama seed, wildflower seed mix
  • Date: July 2007

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My new walkway that I’m working on—digging out the dirt and gopher-proofing with metal lath is just about done. After I return all the soil and get the stepping stones situated, I’ll plant Grama grass seed.

I used to think planting grass was something only expert, advanced and professional gardeners could do—people connected to that higher green thumb. But several years ago I planted Grama seed and it actually came up. Not only that, it’s still there. So this means, if I can do it, anyone can.

Here are a Few Tips for Planting Sowing Seeds

Preparing the Soil

  • Clear the area of weeds and any remnants of former lawns.
  • Most native grasses adapt well to poor soils making soil enrichment unnecessary. But improving the soil with Soil Mender Blend Plus helps. See last week’s article.
  • Loosen soil to a depth of 3-4 inches; set aside enough to cover the seeds.

Preparing the Seed and Sowing

  • Mix seed with sand in a ratio of 1 part sand, 2 parts seed so sowing is even.
  • Broadcast the seed/sand mixture by hand.
  • Lightly cover seeds with the soil that you set aside.
  • Top-dress with a thin layer of mulch to retain moisture and keep birds from the seed.

Watering and Germination

  • Water with a fine spray so the seeds won’t wash out.
  • A few days later, water to a depth of 4-6 inches.
  • Water twice daily, morning and evening to keep the top inch damp.
  • Continue twice-daily watering until the grass germinates.

Warm night temperatures and moist soil help germination, usually within 7 to 10 days. If the seeds have not germinated within 15 days, re-sow.

Once established, native grass is very drought tolerant. To keep it green and actively growing, some extra water may be needed during the hottest part of the summer. Grama grass may brown in extended periods of hot, dry weather but quickly greens again after a few good rains.