- 1). Cast a granule nitrogen fertilizer over the soil and water it in. The package will tell you how much to use based on the size of your yard. The nitrogen will help the grass grow a little quicker, which is needed for planting in May. The month of May is approaching the hottest days of summer, and it is generally better for grass to be well on its way by this point. Normally nitrogen isn't applied until the fall.
- 2). Rake the soil to create grooves for the seeds to nestle into. If the soil is clay, till the ground up to a depth of 4 to 6 inches. Spread 3 to 4 inches of topsoil and compost over the area, and till it into the broken-up clay to create a better mixture that drains well. Rake the soil out smooth when you are done. If you have to till the soil, apply the fertilizer and till it into the soil. Do not water clay soil beforehand, because clay cannot be tilled well when it is wet.
- 3). Measure the yard to determine the square footage. Multiply the length by the width to get the measurement. Look on the package of grass seed to see how many pounds you need for your lawn size. Measure out half this amount, and put it in a seed spreader.
- 4). Walk over the lawn, pushing the spreader as it casts the seed. When you are done, fill the spreader with the other half of the seed, and go over the lawn again.
- 5). Lightly rake the tilled soil to cover the seeds with no more than 1/4 inch of dirt. If you are not working with tilled soil, it is a good idea to sprinkle topsoil over the surface to lightly cover the seeds.
- 6). Sprinkle hay over the ground to hold down the loose soil and seeds.
- 7). Water the lawn for 15 to 20 minutes to soak it several inches deep. Repeat the watering every morning for the first month, or until grass starts to grow. Cut back watering to twice a week after you see growth.
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