Step 1
Identify the field that has poor production and a high proportion of weed grasses.
Step 2
Soil sample – Test for P+K and pH levels (a pH of 6-6.5 is ideal).
Step 3
Spray off field with glyphosphate, have a reasonable cover of grass so that spray is taken in by the leaves and transferred to the roots.
Step 4
Allow 7 – 14 days for the spray to work.
Step 5
For even better weed control try double spraying the field, after the first spray and cultivation allow another 2 – 3 weeks and spray again with quarter rate glyphosphate which will kill all the new emerging weeds.
Step 6
Choose the most suitable seed mixture that is compatible to your needs.
Step 7
Choose your cultivation method – conventional ploughing or minimum cultivation. Aim to have a firm seed bed. Do not bury the seed and also roll after sowing. Fertiliser and lime should be applied as per your soil test results.
Step 8
Pest control – After the seed emerges keep a close eye for pest damage ie fruit fly, slugs etc. Keep up regular observations on your new reseed at this vulnerable time.
Step 9
Management of new sward – first graze of the new reseed is very important. Graze the sward lightly to encourage tillering and increased vigour in the grass, avoid heavy covers of grass building up and graze regularly. Poaching damage of new reseed should be avoided.
Step 10
Weed control – After establishment, spray to eliminate weeds that have germinated within the sward. Choice of spray is important if clover is a component of the seed mixture.
*10 Step Guide thanks to More Grass, see www.moregrassireland.com