What is Grass Seed Netting and Why Use It?
Grass seed netting serves as a vital protective layer for newly sown lawns, offering a physical barrier against common threats. Its primary functions include stabilising the soil to prevent erosion caused by wind or rain, and deterring birds and other wildlife from consuming the valuable grass seed before it has a chance to germinate. The netting also helps retain moisture in the topsoil, creating a more favourable microclimate for seeds to sprout.
When undertaking tasks such as how to reseed a lawn, especially on slopes or exposed areas, the risk of seed being washed away is significant. This is where netting proves invaluable. It holds the grass seed in place, ensuring that a uniform distribution is maintained, which is crucial for achieving an even, healthy sward. For many, the prospect of investing in quality grass seed only to see it lost to environmental factors is a disheartening one. Netting provides a straightforward solution to mitigate these risks.
The effectiveness of netting is tied to its physical structure. Typically made from biodegradable materials like hessian, jute, or photodegradable plastic, it is designed to break down over time, leaving no trace. This decomposition process often begins once the grass begins to grow through it, meaning you do not typically need to remove it. The mesh size is usually fine enough to catch seeds but open enough for seedlings to emerge and for sunlight and water to penetrate.
Choosing to use netting is a proactive measure that can drastically improve the success rate of planting grass seed. It is particularly beneficial when sowing grass seed in challenging conditions, such as windy sites, areas prone to heavy rainfall, or on inclines where water runoff is a concern. For those looking for fast growing lawn seed, ensuring those seeds actually establish is paramount, and netting plays a key role.
Apply netting immediately after sowing grass seed and before watering to anchor it securely and prevent it from floating away.
When Netting is Most Beneficial
The application of netting for lawn seed is particularly advantageous in several scenarios. Consider its use if you are sowing seed on a noticeable slope, as surface water runoff is a significant risk for seed displacement. Areas known for strong winds also benefit, as wind can not only blow seeds away but also dry out the topsoil rapidly, hindering germination. If you have observed birds or squirrels frequently disturbing your lawn areas, netting offers a physical deterrent. For larger areas or where soil stability is a long-term concern, employing netting alongside appropriate grass seed, such as a durable blend for lawns, can be a wise investment.
Materials and Biodegradability
The materials used in grass seed netting are diverse, each with its own characteristics. Jute and hessian nets are fully biodegradable, breaking down naturally over a few months. These are excellent for environmentally conscious projects and require no removal. Photodegradable plastic nets are designed to break down when exposed to sunlight, eventually disintegrating into small fragments. While convenient, the rate of degradation can vary, and it is always worth checking the manufacturer's specifications. It is important to note that while the netting itself aids germination, the quality of the seed, such as choosing the best grass seed for lawns suitable to your climate and soil, remains fundamental to success.
Alternatives to Grass Seed Netting
While grass seed netting is highly effective, several alternative strategies can help stabilise newly sown lawns and protect your seed. These methods might be more suitable depending on the scale of your project, the specific environmental challenges, or your preference for different landscaping approaches. Understanding these options allows for a tailored approach to seeding and lawn establishment.
Mulching and Top Dressing
A thin layer of mulch, such as straw, compost, or specialised seed mulch, can be applied over the grass seed. This helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and prevent soil erosion, much like netting. The mulch layer should be light enough for seedlings to grow through. For instance, a light scattering of compost acts as a nutrient boost and soil conditioner, improving the environment for planting grass seed. It's important to avoid a thick layer, which can smother the seeds.
Hydroseeding
Hydroseeding involves spraying a slurry of seed, fertiliser, mulch (often paper or wood fibre), and water onto the prepared ground. The mulch component acts as a binder, holding the seed in place and retaining moisture. This method is particularly effective for large or steep areas and can provide a more uniform application than manual sowing. It's a method that can accelerate the process of getting grass seed to grow, as the conditions are optimised from the outset.
Erosion Control Blankets (Beyond Netting)
For more severe erosion concerns, such as very steep banks or areas with high water flow, heavier erosion control blankets might be considered. These are often made from coir (coconut fibre) or straw and are more robust than standard grass seed netting. They provide substantial protection against displacement but may require removal once vegetation is established, depending on the product type.
Seed Enhancements and Coatings
Some advanced grass seed products come with coatings designed to improve germination and soil adhesion. These coatings can include moisture-retention agents, tackifiers, and nutrients, helping the seed stay put and providing an initial boost. While not a direct replacement for physical barriers like netting, these enhancements can contribute to overall seed establishment success, particularly when combined with careful sowing techniques.
The most successful lawn establishment often comes from combining the right seed with the right protection and patience.
Sowing Techniques
Proper sowing techniques themselves can minimise the need for extensive protective measures. Using a grass seed spreader ensures an even application, preventing clumps that are more susceptible to wash-off. Sowing when the weather forecast is calm and before expected rainfall (but not downpours) can also help. For sloping areas, sowing across the slope rather than down it can help reduce the speed of water runoff. Combining these methods with appropriate care after planting grass seed will give your lawn the best start.
How to Use Grass Seed Netting Effectively
To maximise the benefits of grass seed netting, proper installation is key. The process should ideally happen immediately after you have sown your grass seed and lightly raked it into the soil surface, but before you water. This sequence ensures the netting is anchored by the soil rather than floating on water, which could lead to it shifting or becoming ineffective.
Preparation and Sowing
Begin with a well-prepared soil bed. Remove all debris, weeds, and old grass. Loosen the top few inches of soil with a rake or fork, as this provides a good base for the seed to make contact with. Spread your chosen grass seed evenly using a spreader for best results, aiming for the recommended coverage rate. Lightly rake the seed into the top layer of soil, about 0.5cm deep, ensuring good seed-to-soil contact. This is critical for how long does grass seed take to germinate; without it, germination will be slow and patchy.
Laying the Netting
Unroll the netting over the sown area, ensuring it lies flat against the soil surface without significant wrinkles or gaps. If laying multiple pieces, overlap the edges by at least 10-15 cm to prevent gaps where seeds could be exposed or washed away. Secure the netting firmly using garden stakes, U-shaped pegs, or stones placed along the edges and at regular intervals across the surface. The goal is to prevent the netting from lifting or shifting in the wind or rain. For slopes, pegging is especially important, ideally pinning the top edge securely and then pegging down the entire surface.
Watering After Installation
Once the netting is securely in place, water the area gently but thoroughly. Use a fine spray from a hose or a watering can to avoid disturbing the netting or washing the seed. The water will penetrate the netting, moistening the soil and activating the germination process. The netting will then help retain this moisture, which is crucial for young grass seedlings. The frequency of watering will depend on the weather; you will need to keep the topsoil consistently moist until the grass is well-established.
Maintenance and Removal
Continue to water regularly. As the grass seed germinates and begins to grow, you will see seedlings emerging through the mesh. If you have used a biodegradable or photodegradable net, it will begin to break down naturally. You will not need to remove it. If, by chance, you used a non-biodegradable net (which is uncommon for grass seed applications), you would need to carefully cut and remove it once the grass is robust enough to withstand the process, typically after several weeks. However, the preference is always for materials that integrate with the lawn.
If using multiple rolls of netting, ensure you overlap them generously to prevent gaps, especially in windy conditions or on slopes.
When to Expect Results
The time it takes for grass seed to grow varies depending on the type of seed, soil temperature, and moisture levels. Some fast-growing lawn seed varieties can germinate within 5-10 days, while others might take 2-3 weeks. The netting provides a stable environment for this process. Be patient, as successful establishment is a marathon, not a sprint. Once the grass reaches a height of about 2-3 cm, it will typically have developed a root system strong enough to anchor itself, and the netting will have served its purpose.
Comparing Grass Seed Netting Options
When selecting grass seed netting, consider the specific needs of your lawn project and your environmental considerations. While the core function remains consistent – protecting the seed – the materials and structures offer different advantages and lifespans.
Biodegradable Options (Jute, Hessian, Paper/Straw Fibre)
These are often the most popular choice for domestic use. Jute and hessian nets are strong, natural fibres that decompose reliably over several months. They are typically quite open-meshed, allowing easy passage for grass seedlings. Paper or straw fibre nets are also common, often resembling thick felt, and are designed to break down even faster, sometimes within weeks. They excel at retaining moisture and holding seed but can be less robust against severe erosion than woven nets.
Pros: Environmentally friendly, require no removal, support soil health as they decompose, allow easy seedling emergence.
Cons: Lifespan can be variable (especially paper/straw), may not withstand extreme weather conditions for prolonged periods, some can be fibrous and difficult to handle.
Photodegradable Plastic Netting
This type of netting is manufactured from plastic designed to break down when exposed to UV light. It offers good strength and durability, providing consistent protection for a defined period. The rate at which it degrades depends on sunlight intensity, meaning its lifespan can be somewhat unpredictable in varied climates. If it breaks down into very small particles, it may require removal or manual breaking up.
Pros: Durable, consistent protection, can be easier to handle and lay than some natural fibres, often finer mesh for better seed retention.
Cons: Environmental impact can be higher if not fully degraded or if fragments remain, degradation rate is dependent on sunlight, might require removal if not fully broken down.
Woven Coir (Coconut Fibre) Mats
While more commonly classified as erosion control blankets, coir mats serve a similar purpose for large or critical areas. They are highly durable, provide excellent erosion control, and retain significant moisture. Coir is a natural, biodegradable material that breaks down slowly, offering long-term protection. Their denser structure might require careful management to ensure seedlings can push through effectively.
Pros: Extremely durable, excellent erosion control, long lifespan, natural and biodegradable.
Cons: Can be heavy and expensive, may require manual intervention to ensure grass can emerge if too dense, typically used for larger or more challenging areas.
Considerations for Selection
When deciding, evaluate the slope of your land, the expected weather patterns (wind, rain intensity), and how quickly you need the grass to establish. For typical domestic lawns on moderate slopes, biodegradable jute or straw mats are usually adequate. For steeper banks or areas prone to significant water runoff, a more robust option like a coir mat might be justified. Always check the product's stated degradation time and intended use. When comparing, consider the size of the mesh opening relative to the size of your grass seed – you want it to hold the seed but allow seedlings to pass through.
Always lay netting in the direction of water flow on slopes, if possible, to aid drainage and prevent pooling.