What is hydroseeding? If you’re asking this question, you’re not alone. More and more homeowners are turning to this method to get the beautiful, healthy yard they’ve always wanted. The good news is that hydroseeding comes without the patchiness or hassle that sometimes goes along with traditional seeding.

In this article, we’re answering the question, “What is hydroseeding grass?” while explaining how it works and why it’s a smart option for homeowners in Upstate NY. From faster results to erosion prevention, there’s a lot to like. Keep reading and you’ll also learn answers to common questions about hydroseeding cost, the best times to have it done, and how to take care of your lawn after it’s done.

What Is Hydroseeding?

The most common question homeowners have is, “What is hydroseeding?” It may not be a method you’re familiar with if all you’ve done before is laying out seed the traditional way. Hydroseeding is a lawn seeding technique where we spray a slurry mixture of grass seed, water, mulch, and fertilizer directly onto the soil. The mixture creates an ideal environment for seeds to germinate quickly and evenly.

Unlike tossing out dry seed by hand or with a spreader, hydroseeding covers your yard with a mulch layer that helps keep everything moist and in place while the seeds do their thing. It’s a go-to method for larger lawns, sloped properties, and areas where erosion control is important.

So if you’ve been wondering, “What is hydroseeding grass?” it’s effectively a high-efficiency way to plant a lawn. You’ll also be happy to learn it has better success rates and faster results than traditional methods, so it gets your property looking great even faster!

How Does Hydroseeding Work?

As we previously mentioned, hydroseeding is a method involving spraying a slurry mixture evenly across your lawn area. Where hand-seeding or traditional spreaders might miss an area, hydroseeding gives you fuller coverage. This is important to hit those hard-to-reach spots, or if you’re landscaping a sloped backyard. Once it’s down, the mulch layer helps protect the seeds from wind, water runoff, birds, and direct sunlight.

Within a few days, you’ll usually see signs of your seeds taking root and germinating. This is faster than you’d typically get with traditional seeding. Most lawns begin to fill in within 5 to 7 days in ideal conditions. This means your yard can be fully established over the next few months with the right care.

Bonus Info: Debating between hydroseeding vs sod? Check out our comparison guide after this article to see the pros and cons of each.

Benefits of Hydroseeding for Your Lawn

What is hydroseeding doing to benefit your lawn, you ask? There’s a reason so many homeowners have chosen this method to get their lawns in shape more quickly.

Some of the benefits of hydroseeding your lawn include:

• Faster germination: The moist environment created by the hydroseed mix helps seeds germinate more quickly than traditional dry seeding. You may start seeing green shoots within the first week.
• Better coverage: The slurry sticks to the soil, making it ideal for tricky sloped yards or areas where dry seed might wash away. You get more even growth and fewer bare patches with hydroseeding.
• Erosion control: Because the hydroseeding slurry holds everything in place, it’s a great option for hilly lawns or areas that might have erosion issues. It keeps everything from washing away while your new grass takes root.
• Cost-effective: Sod gives your yard instant results, but it’s also more expensive than hydroseeding. Hydroseeding gives you a lush lawn, typically at a lower overall investment.
• Custom seed blends: Our landscaping team can tailor the seed mix based on your soil, sunlight, and lawn needs. That means when you hydroseed your yard, you’re getting a healthier lawn that’s fit for how you use it.

How Much Does Hydroseeding Cost?

If you’re asking, “What is hydroseeding grass sections of my yard?” then the next thing you’re likely wondering is how much it costs. Hydroseeding costs vary based on the size of your lawn and the specific seed blend used, but in general, it’s more affordable than sod and slightly more expensive than DIY dry seeding.

Typical residential hydroseeding costs range from $0.10 to $0.20 per square foot. That means a 5,000-square-foot lawn might cost between $500 and $1,250 to hydroseed. Our team will give you a proper estimate so there’s no surprises.

When’s the Best Time to Hydroseed?

Timing matters when it comes to hydroseeding. You want to make sure you’re setting it up for success. The best times to hydroseed in the Capital Region are:

• Early Fall (late August through September): This is when the soil is still warm but the worst of the summer heat has passed. 
• Spring (April to early June): Spring is the second-best option. This time of year is when temperatures are warming up, and spring rains help with germination.

If you can, it’s best to avoid peak summer or deep winter unless you’re working with professionals like us who can adapt the seed blend and prepare your yard properly. 

How to Care for a Hydroseeding Lawn

Speaking of preparing your yard, it’s important to know how to care for a hydroseeded lawn. A hydroseeded lawn needs a little TLC in the early days, but the payoff is a thick, green lawn that looks professionally done (because it is!).

Here’s what you’re going to want to do:

• Water your yard regularly: You need to keep the seedbed consistently moist for the first few weeks. Water a few times a day at short intervals to keep it from drying out. You might also consider a drip irrigation or sprinkler system to make this even easier on yourself.
• Stay off it: We love using our yard, too, but right after hydroseeding, you need to limit foot traffic while the grass is establishing. That means keeping pets, kids, and even lawn chairs off for just a bit.
• Mow the lawn when it’s ready: Once the grass reaches 3 to 4 inches in height, it’s time for the first mow. Make sure your mower blades are sharp to avoid pulling up your fragile new grass.
• Fertilize as directed: You can speak to our team about when to apply the next round of fertilizer for your yard. This will usually be about a month after hydroseeding to support growth and root development.

Additional Info: Considering an irrigation system? How much does an irrigation system cost? Learn more about your options and where typical pricing starts after this article.

Is Hydroseeding Right for You?

Now that we’ve answered the question, “What is hydroseeding?” are you ready to get started? If you’re aiming for a lush, even, and affordable lawn, hydroseeding is hard to beat. It’s faster than traditional seeding, less expensive than sod, and perfect for new builds, sloped yards, or patchy areas that need a little attention to get back to looking their best.

Give us a shout, and we’re happy to talk through your options to help you decide the best plan for your outdoor space.