I have a rather large area under a Maple tree that I am trying to grow grass in but need some help.

I put down a layer of triple mix first and then I spread starter fertilizer and then grass seed down. I lightly raked the seed into the soil and have been watering for about 2 weeks. THere are barely any signs of new grass and I have no idea why!!

I did read in the local paper that you should not try to grow grass near a Maple tree... I have no idea why but I am thinking that it has to do with the shade..

Any hints on how I can get this darn grass growing!!
Thanks,

 

Some types of grass will tolerate shade, others will barely grow. What type do you have?

 

In addition to the shade, Maple trees have a lot of surface feeder roots that will draw most of the moisture and nutrients out of the soil before turfgrasses can benefit.

If you are in the cool season grass zones, the Fine Fescues are the most drought and shade tolerent and need less nutrition than the other traditional turfgrasses, but they are thin in coverage by their nature and you will still be overseeding annually to try to maintain a lawn under the tree. If you decide to try the Fine Fescues, don't fertilize - they can be set back by overfertilization.

Not encouraging news, but that's the perennial problem with Maples

If the area can be mulched or another groundcover used, you might have better results.

Good Luck

Howie

 

thanks for the replies... I live in Toronto as well!! When you say "can they are be mulched", what do you mean??? I have thought about just putting down wood chips as a form of cover/decoration but it might look out of place given that the area is on one side of my backyard which is otherwise covered with grass and a flagstone patio.

 

It all depends on what you are going to be using the area for. Wood chips, stone or clay (brick) chips will work as a mulch - you can put stepping stones or a patio area in if you want a place for furniture.

Groundcovers like Vinca (periwinkle) will take some foot traffic and should survive under the Maple, but it will take a few seasons to establish.

If you can take some time to look at how others (including in the Parks) have delt with Maples, you might get a better idea what might work for you.

Good Luck

Howie