I am a killer

[tigerthecat]

Cut lawn yesterday and applied weed killer to kill the dandelions except I've just realised I have applied weed killer that will kill the grass. That will teach me. Whats going to happen and what/how should I re sow it. How long will it take to regrow.I need help because I feel so bad about it. I am (clearly) not a gardener but did enjoy my garden. Please advise. Thank-you

[Thunderbird+]

It looks like you have used a non-selective weedkiller, which may also have a residule affect.

Dig out the bare area of dead grass and replace with fresh soil and compost with a little grass seed mixed in.

To be on the safe side dig out a much wider area than what appears to have been killed.

[tigerthecat]

It says on the packet - had I read it fully that it could be used on a lawn before re seeding or laying new turf. So is it still necessary to dig out the soil? Thank-you for your advice Thunderbird+

[Clanad]

While I'm usually in agreement with Thunderbird+, in this case I'd advise that here in the U.S. all newer weed killers are required to be neutralized in the soil after a very short time... in some cases 48 hours but in any case no longer than 7 to 10 days. Depending on the active ingredients of the weed killer you used (see the label) I would wait about a week or so, and then scarify the top soil down to about 1 to 2 inches, rake off any dead grass, spread granular fertilizer at about 3 pounds per 1,000 square feet, seed with a good quality grass seed and cover with a top dressing of a manure-compost mix to about one half inch. Keep the entire area damp and when the grass sprouts use at least an inch of water per week. Best of luck!

[tigerthecat]

Thank-you Clanad - It says on the pack that it is "completely inactived once it touches the soil. Seeds and plants can be sown as soon as the liquid has dried"?

[Thunderbird+]

Ah...Yes tigerthecat, Now we have a clearer picture of the kind of weedkiller you used, clanad's answer makes a lot of sence, if I can just add to that by suggesting some wire mesh over the sown areas,(slightly raised) while the seed is germinating, this will help prevent birds and animals digging out and disturbing your repairs. All the Best

[tigerthecat]

Thank-you Thundebird+

[Postdog]

Weedkiller that kills grass!!

Never heard of it it, but I want some - I hate mowing!!

[rescuer]

Get 'Round Up' postdog and it will kill all vegetation like a 'scorched earth' policy.

[markja]

tiger, don't do anything untill the grass dies. if you're lucky it'll be ok and you'll have got away with it.