Hydroseeding was invented by the Finn Corporation in the 1950’s as a solution to the increasing need of controlling erosion along the expanding stretches of highways. The process involves combining hydromulch, fertilizer, plant seeds and any other required ingredients in a large tank. This mixture, known as “slurry” is then mixed by either a mechanical agitator or re-circulated by means of a “jet” system. Once mixed, the slurry is then sprayed onto the ground either through a turret for long distances, or a hose for close up work. Through the years, this process has continually been improved. Today, hydroseeding is the most efficient method available to plant a lawn and achieve “sod” quality results.

     So what’s the difference between hydroseeding and hydromulching? Well, for the most part the two terms are used interchangeably. However, the term hydromulching is sometimes used to indicate a thicker slurry is being used than with hydroseeding. The process we use at Space City Hydroseeders would fit in the hydromulching realm, but since we use Finn equipment and Finn coined the phrase hydroseeding, we chose to use that term in our name. The Finn Hydroseeder is a mechanically agitated unit capable of mixing thick wood hydromulch slurries. The jet systems are better suited for paper mulch slurries. Both types are very good at what they’re designed to do, but in the southern part of the US, the wood mulch works much better. If you were to use a paper mulch to spray the thick slurry needed in the south, the mulch would crust over and smoother the seeds. The wood mulch breathes, which allows for much thicker applications.

     The key to a successful lawn is the slurry being used. We use only the finest materials available and apply them at the recommended rates. Our standard application uses a mulch that is 70% wood and 30% paper. We apply the mulch at a minimum rate of 2000 lbs/ acre. We also use the finest seeds available. You can read more about the seeds we use in the Types of Grass section of this web site.