The first number that is listed on fertilizer bags is the nitrogen. Nitrogen is good for lawns because it can really help to green up a dull yard. If you already have a mature, existing lawn, you will probably not need a high percent of nitrogen in your fertilizer. The second number that is listed on fertilizer bags is phosphate. You should till the seedbed in two different directions. When you have completed tilling, you may notice that the tiller has brought debris and stones to the surface. Rake these out of the seedbed. Any amendments that need to be added to the soil should be added at this time. You should also apply a lawn fertilizer to the soil. Whether you are seeding, laying sod or planting plugs and sprigs, you should do all you can to ensure that your soil is properly prepared. If you truly want to get your new lawn off to a great start, you should have your soil tested. If you do not want to fool with locating a lab that will test your soil, simply purchase a soil testing kit and do it yourself. These grasses are popular in the Northern United States. Cool season grasses include Bentgrass, Kentucky Bluegrass, Rough Bluegrass, Tall Fescue, Creeping Fescue, Annual Ryegrass and Perennial Ryegrass. Warm Season Grass These grasses are meant to be planted in the late spring. Planting in the late spring allows the grass seed to establish itself and take root prior to the hot growing season. We have comprised a list of necessary tools for you to take the guesswork out of it. The proper shovel is important to gardening. If you are going to be digging, you should purchase a shovel that is shaped like a spade. If you are going to be picking up clutter and debris from your soil, you will want to have a shovel that has a flat head. Sod lawns at this age really like deeper and less frequent waterings because it helps their roots to grow deeper to reach water. This establishes your new lawn into the soil and makes it stronger. If you want to check to see if your lawn is getting firmly rooted, simply tug on the turf. At the four week mark, you should apply an application of fertilizer to your new lawn.