- 1). Choose a turf type that can not only grow in your region, but also meets your needs. Kentucky bluegrass grows better in the cooler northern parts of the state. Perennial ryegrass cannot thrive in southern Nebraska; however, tall fescue can grow in all areas of the state.
- 2). Conduct a soil pH test on your gardening area. Purchase a soil pH testing kit from your local University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension County Offices. Collect soil samples according to the directions. Give yourself at least three months before you want to plant grass seed, as it will take sulfur three months to change the pH range of alkaline soil. Mail the samples to the address indicated on the test and wait a few weeks for the results. Amend soil that is too acidic with lime.
- 3). Till the soil and break up any clumps of dirt that are larger than a half dollar. Improve your soil's draining abilities if you have sandy or clay soil. Grab a handful and squeeze. Amend dry, clumpy soil with sphagnum moss. Spread 6 inches of both compost and builder's sand over any clay lawn area that releases water.
- 4). Even out the yard with the back of a rake. Fill in any low areas with dirt. Water the yard for three days straight before seeding.
- 5). Fill a seeder with your choice of grass seeds. Push the seeder back and forth across the yard to get an even spread of seeds.
- 6). Cover the seeds with 1/8 inch of compost and water the area. Water the grass with a mist of water four times a day until it has grown 1 inch.
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