Grass Seeding in Exeter
Professional grass seeding services in Exeter and surrounding areas. Local, reliable handyman - no job too small.
Price Guide
£60-£160
Typical Duration
1-3 hrs
Location
Exeter, Devon
Professional grass seeding to repair bare patches, establish new lawns, or overseed tired turf. We prepare the soil properly, use quality seed, and provide aftercare guidance for successful establishment.
Why Grass Seeding Needs Proper Preparation
Because grass seed sown on compacted soil, poorly prepared ground, or at the wrong time just wastes money. Seed needs good soil contact, consistent moisture, and protection from birds and weather to germinate and establish successfully.
We handle all aspects of grass seeding - ground preparation, seed selection, sowing, covering, and aftercare advice. Whether you're filling dog-worn patches, repairing damaged lawn, or establishing grass from scratch, we set it up for success.
What We Do
First, we prepare the area: clear debris, break up compacted soil, rake level, and create a fine tilth. Grass seed needs soil contact, not a lumpy surface or layer of old thatch.
Then we select appropriate seed for your situation. Shaded lawn needs shade-tolerant seed. Hard-wearing areas need ryegrass. Fast establishment needs quick-germinating mix. There's no universal "grass seed" - it matters what you use.
We sow at the correct rate (too thin won't cover, too thick creates weak grass), rake it in gently, firm the surface, and cover with appropriate protection against birds and weather.
💡 Pro tip: Overseeding existing lawns in autumn transforms tired turf. New grass fills in gaps, thickens coverage, and improves appearance without the disruption of full renovation.
Done Right vs Done Wrong
| ✅ Done Right | ❌ Done Wrong |
|---|---|
| Soil prepared to fine tilth, level and firm | Seed scattered on compacted surface |
| Appropriate seed for conditions and use | Cheapest possible mix regardless |
| Protected from birds and weather | Left exposed, birds have a feast |
| Aftercare instructions provided | Sown and forgotten |
Why Choose Us for Grass Seeding in Exeter?
Soil prepared properly for germination
Quality grass seed matched to conditions
Covering and protection from birds
Aftercare guidance for establishment
What to Expect
1. Site Preparation We assess the area, clear debris, break up compacted soil, level if needed, and create a seedbed. Poor preparation equals poor results.
2. Seeding Appropriate seed is sown at correct density, raked in lightly, firmed, and covered with mesh or straw for protection.
3. Aftercare Guidance We show you what's been done and explain watering, protection, and timeline for establishment. You'll know exactly what to do next.
🔧 DIY Tips
🔧 Tools & Materials
- Rake for soil preparation
- Quality grass seed (appropriate for location)
- Lawn roller or board for firming
- Bird netting or straw for protection
- Watering can or sprinkler
📐 Steps
- Clear area of weeds, debris, and dead grass
- Break up compacted soil with fork
- Rake to fine tilth, removing stones
- Sow seed evenly at recommended rate
- Rake in lightly and firm surface
- Cover with netting or straw
- Water gently if no rain forecast
⚠️ Common Mistakes
- Sowing on compacted, unprepared soil
- Using inappropriate seed for conditions
- Sowing too thinly (patchy) or too thickly (weak)
- Not protecting from birds
- Walking on it before established
- Letting it dry out during germination
💡 Pro Trick
Mix seed with equal volume of dry sand or compost before sowing. Makes it easier to see where you've sown, helps distribute evenly, and the material provides slight protection and moisture retention.
Rather leave it to a pro? No problem - that's what I'm here for. Give me a call.
Good to Know
Combine with: Stump grinding, garden clearance, border edging Related services: Turfing (faster but more expensive alternative)
Grass seed is cheaper than turf but requires patience and care. Turf gives instant lawn; seed takes 6-8 weeks to establish. Both work fine - it's about budget, urgency, and personal preference.
Birds love grass seed. We cover it, but determined birds will find gaps. Don't panic if you see birds in the area - some seed loss is normal and we sow dense enough to account for it.
Watering matters hugely during germination. Seed needs consistent moisture for 2-3 weeks. If we're in a dry spell, you'll need to water gently every day or two. Once germinated, grass becomes more drought-tolerant.
First mowing should wait until grass is 6-8cm tall, and only remove the top third. Set mower high and use a sharp blade. Tearing new grass damages it. Be gentle for the first few months.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does grass seeding cost?
Grass seeding costs £60-£160 depending on area size and preparation required. Small patches (1-3 sqm) from £60, medium areas (4-8 sqm) around £110, larger areas £160+. This includes soil preparation, seed, and covering.
When's the best time to sow grass seed?
Spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October) are ideal for grass seeding in Devon. Soil is warm, moisture is generally good, and grass establishes before weather extremes. We can seed other times but success rates are lower.
How long before I can use the new grass?
Allow 6-8 weeks minimum before regular use. Grass germinates in 7-14 days, but needs time to establish strong roots. Light foot traffic after 4 weeks, full use after 8-10 weeks. We'll give you specific aftercare instructions.
Will grass seed definitely take?
With proper preparation, appropriate seed, and reasonable weather, success rates are excellent. Failure usually comes from drought, waterlogging, bird damage, or walking on it too early. We prepare properly and advise on aftercare to maximize success.
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