Hydro-mulching, sometimes referred to as hydroseeding, is a grass planting process. This grass planting process is fast, efficient, and economical. The process is frequently more effective than conventional seeding and more economical than conventional sodding.

The process begins by mixing mulch, seed, fertilizer, and water in a tank. Then the material is pumped from the tank and sprayed onto the ground. The mixed material is often referred to as a slurry, and looks very similiar to green paper mache.

Once applied to the soil, the material enhances initial growth by providing an environment beneficial to seed germination.

If the area to be planted is smooth the resulting grass surface will be smooth. Also, hydro-mulching will produce turf which is almost weed free. However, weed seed is almost always present in the soil, and when the moisture and fertilizer are applied, weed seed can emerge.

A good mulch application will reduce moisture evaporation from the soil. Grass seed needs soil moisture to germinate and grow, and that moisture must come from either irrigation or rainfall. Poor growth is almost always due to lack of water.

A good mulch application also provides erosion resistance. When soil erosion is reduced or prevented, and the seeds are held in place, a more uniform coverage of grass is assured.

HYDRO-MULCHlNG HAS A VARIETY OF USES
New home lawns is the largest defined market for hydro-mulching. Other landscape applications are also significant. Hydro-mulching is being used more and more in new golf course construction.
New highway and utility construction are also significant users of hydromulch for the establishment of turf in large areas.  

WATER! WATER! WATER!
Without adequate irrigation, the establishment time and coverage will vary significantly. To ensure quality turf, propering watering is essential.   An in-ground irrigation system makes the application of water much easier and more efficient.

THE RESULTS
Warm and moist conditions promote faster seed germination. Seed bed conditions determine growth rates after germination. When all the conditions are favorable, grass may require mowing and have excellent coverage in about three to four weeks.  During less favorable circumstances, a good stand of grass can take many months, or even up to a year, to become established.

SEEDING, SODDING, OR HYDRO-MULCHING
Each method has its advantages and disadvantages:
Seeding without the protection of mulch is usually less expensive than hydro-mulching. Seeding, without mulch, may be the method of choice due to budget constraints. However, the results will almost always be less dependable. Sodding will provide solid coverage of grass immediately. This is the best method for the establishment of a turf. Hydromulching can provide a full coverage of grass in six to eight weeks. The cost of hydro-mulching falls between that of seeding and sodding.

GROWTH SEEMS CERTAIN
Most new construction sites need new grass. These include housing and business facilities. Highway construction and other land development areas need new grass. Grass is necessary to provide erosion and soil control.   If your project calls for the establishment of turf let SIMS GRASS help you with the option that best suits your needs and budget.