HELP!!! I just planted new grass seed (southern California) 4 days ago.?

Question

I just planted new grass seed (southern California) 4 days ago. Something started sprouting and it does not look like new grass. it is covering a large area of the newly seeded yard. Does anyone know what it could be? Is it the new grass? Should I take it out if it is not? If so how and should I reseed?

Answer 1

if you didn't spray round up before you planted the grass seed these are likely weeds.  You will need to wait until the lawn is established before you make a final decision.  Weeds are easier to see once the lawn has been established.

Answer 2

Even if you sprayed round-up before your seeded there is a SEED BANK in the soil (loaded with seeds).  If what you're looking at has two opposite leaves, then you have braodleaf weeds coming up.  

What you should've done beofre you seeded was: water/irrigate the area for 5-10 days and "pre-germinate" the weed seeds.  Spray round-up a second time and then you're clean.  Follow up your second application of round -up with seed and a little fertilizer-you will have 95% grass.  The other 5% weeds can be treated once you've mowed your new seed 2-3 times (approx. 6-8 weeks away)

At this point, just let the seed grow and plan on treating the area with a weed n' feed in 6-8 weeks.  

Now you know

Answer 3

Possibly,germination for rye grass is 7-10 days.You will notice fine splinters of grass growing.Just wait it out,keep watered.You will see a better lawn sooner (per say) if you spread straw over your seedings.This will help retain moisture for better growth.

My Best