204 AROUND THE YEAR IN THE GARDEN 



from a thoroughly rehable source. The quality of the seed 

 may be judged to a large extent by the weight — average 

 seed weighs from thirteen to sixteen pounds a bushel, while 

 really first-class seed should weigh between twenty and 

 twenty-four pounds. Be sure, however, that this extra 

 weight is not due to an excess of clover seed. 



Use plenty of seed. One of the most general mistakes in 

 lawn making is trying to save on this item. An abundance 

 of seed means not only quicker results, but surer results, 

 and a lawn of much finer texture. Though as Kttle as three 

 bushels to the acre is often sown, eight bushels is none too 

 much for immediate and certain results. The condition of 

 the soil, the quality of the seed and the weather are factors 

 that influence the amount to be used. As an acre contains 

 about 43,500 square feet, the proportional amovmts of seed 

 for small lawns can readily be figured. 



Watering and Cutting 



Provision for copious watering should be made. An or- 

 dinary lawn sprinkler will answer, but remember that if 

 water is applied at all it should be in sufiicient quantities to 

 wet thoroughly three or four inches of soil. Lighter water- 

 ings, which are so frequently given to "freshen up" the 

 appearance of the lawn, are injurious, as they keep the 

 young seedlings rooting near the surface, where they are 

 most subject to injury from drought. 



Do not be in any hurry to make the first cutting. Let the 

 grass get several inches high. Then do not cut it close. 

 For the first two or three times simply cut off the top, and 

 the cuttings, unless heavy enough to mat down the grass, 

 may be left where they fall. After that the machine may 

 be shut down closer, but the lawn should never be shaved. 

 Many people make the mistake of cutting the grass too 

 short. This exposes the roots to injury. Do not cut the 

 new lawn late in the fall; leave a generous grass mulch for 

 winter protection. 



Next to watering and regular cutting, rolling is the most 



