The best time to seed a lawn in the Virgin Islands is at the beginning of the rainy months (in the
fall). This is when conditions are most favorable for germination and growth.
 Seeding rates are shown in the chart below. Rates vary with species and variety of grass. For
example, only 1-2 pounds are needed to seed 1,000 sq. ft. of Bermuda grass. In contrast, bahia grass
seed is larger and requires 5-10 pounds per 1,000 sq. ft. to produce adequate cover.
 Grass seed may be planted by hand or with a mechanical seeder. However, to produce a more
uniform distribution, apply your seed mechanically using a rotary seeder. Another practice thatwill help
you obtain a more uniform distribution is to mix the seed with a convenient carrier such as gutter or
builder's sand. It is very important that you lightly cover the freshly sown seed by hand raking or by
dragging with a brush or mat. On slight slopes mulching with a light covering of weed-free straw or
hay will help hold moisture and prevent washing of the seed during watering or rainfall.
 New seedlings should be kept moist until well-established. Once seeds have begun to
germinate, they must not dry out or they will die. Avoid saturating the soil: excessive moisture will float
some seeds to the surface which could easily be washed away. Also, too much water greatly increases
the chances of fungus diseases.
Vegetative Planting
 Seeds of some grasses are not available or do not produce seedlings that are true type (identical
to parent species). Such grasses must be planted vegetatively. Vegetative planting is simply transplanting
large or small pieces of grass. Solid sodding means completely covering the seed bed with square or
rectangular pieces of grass. Plugging or sprigging refers to planting of pieces of sod or even individual
stems or runners called stolons. Unless good quality stock/grass is available, and complete coverage
is needed immediately, the expense of sodding is seldom justified.

 PLANTING YOUR VIRGIN ISLANDS LAWN
 Methods Available


 Grass Seed Vegetative Ra Per 1.000 sq. ft.
 Propagation

 Hurricane Yes Sprigs, Plugs. Sod I 2 Ibs.

 Bermuda:
 Common Yes Sprigs, Plugs, Sod I 2 Ibs.

 All Others No Sprigs, Plugs, Sod 6 12 Inches apart

 Bahia Yes Sod 5 10 Ibs.

St. Augustine No Sprigs. Plugs. Sod 6 12 inches apart

 Zoysia:
 Z Jopon a Yes Sprigs. Plugs, Sod 1/2- I Ib.

 All Others No Sprigs, Plugs, Sod 6 12 inches apart

 Centipede Yes Sprigs, Plugs. Sod I 2 Ibs.