Freshly seeded lawns in Eastern Ontario need consistent moisture, limited traffic, and proper mowing during the first 6–8 weeks. The biggest mistake homeowners make is letting the seed dry out even once during germination.

Week 1–3: Germination

Watering

• Water 2–4 times per day if it's warm and dry.
• Keep the top 1–2 cm (½ inch) of soil consistently moist.
• Water lightly enough that the soil doesn't puddle or wash away.
• Early morning is best, followed by midday and late afternoon if needed.

In Eastern Ontario, hot, windy summer days may require more frequent watering than cool spring or early fall weather.

Foot Traffic

• Keep people, pets, and equipment off the lawn as much as possible.
• Avoid dragging hoses across newly sprouted grass.

Fertilizer

If you applied a starter fertilizer when seeding, don't add more immediately.

• Wait 4–6 weeks before applying your next fertilizer.
• Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers during germination unless recommended by a soil test.

Week 3–6: Establishment

Watering

As the grass matures:

• Reduce watering frequency.
• Increase the amount each time.
• Aim for 2–3 deep waterings per week, depending on rainfall.

This encourages deeper root growth.

First Mowing

Mow when the grass reaches about:

• 3.5–4 inches (9–10 cm) tall.
• Cut only the top ⅓ of the blade.
• Use a sharp mower blade.
• Avoid mowing when the lawn is wet.

Weed Control

Expect some weeds—they're normal. Do not:

• Apply herbicides immediately after seeding.
• Pull lots of weeds while the grass is still establishing.

Wait until:

• You've mowed the lawn at least 3–4 times before using most lawn weed-control products (always follow the product label).

Quick Care Checklist

• ✅ Keep the soil consistently moist until germination.
• ✅ Reduce watering gradually as roots develop.
• ✅ Keep traffic to a minimum.
• ✅ Mow at 3.5–4 inches with a sharp blade.
• ✅ Wait 4–6 weeks before fertilizing again (if starter fertilizer was used).
• ✅ Wait until after 3–4 mowings before applying weed control.