SM
ETF soil temps for spring reno
Hi, my lawn is pretty average to say the least. What’s everyone’s thoughts on spraying it out now and doing a full lawn reno or should I be patient and wait until the autumn? I want to put in ETF. Thanks in advance
Soil temps are still too cold for ETF.
You're looking for 15°C at 10cm depth, measured at 6am. You're a good 4-6 weeks off ideal time to be honest.
Have a look at the soil temps tool in the app.
@Jonny Hicks looks like you're in Hamilton, way too cold atm.
@Jonny Hicks thanks. I wasn't planning on putting the seed in until we get a bit warmer soil temps. It's more of an autumn versus spring reno and whether I should have a go this spring?
@Steve Morton Either is fine, spring or autumn. Some people argue that spring is slightly better because it gives the lawn more time to establish and develop a strong root system before heading into winter. With an autumn renovation, you have a shorter window before temperatures start cooling down and growth slows.
Personally, I think either works perfectly well, but if I had to choose, I’d probably give spring a slight edge.
@Jonny Hicks that's the advice I was hoping for! Will get the roundup out in the next few weeks then! Am I looking for an average or minimum soil temp of 15 deg?
@Steve Morton Yeah for best results I would. You could perhaps start at 13 deg average but I wouldn't start any lower than that. It's a really slow seed at low temps, it likes some warmth in the ground.
Just be prepared to water well through the summer to keep things progressing when selecting a spring seed.
Hi Steve, I put ETF down on 11 July here in Pukekohe. No sun, but protected on three sides so no frost. Soil temps were a few degrees above and below 10. Also with all the moisture in the air I only watered it once, on the day I put the seed down.
It took longer to germinate, but I was okay with it as my choice was muddy clay or any kind of strike rate.
This is what it looks like after 6 weeks, the corner area. Got some weeds (did not use pre-emergent) and plenty of moss. Some areas around 50-60mm.
@George A cheers,