Applying a pre-emergent herbicide for weed control is especially important with spring seedings since weed pressure is so much greater early in the year. The only pre-emergent herbicide that can be used with new seedings is Siduron, commonly sold as Tupersan. This herbicide will provide good control of annual grassy weeds like crabgrass and foxtail, yet still allow the grass seed to germinate. For new seedings, use the lower recommended rate and repeat the application one month later. Finally, keep the new seeding moist until germination has occurred, then gradually decrease the amount of water applied.
Tall fescue is drought tolerant and once established can be grown in most years without irrigation.
No matter what type of grass is used in the turf, apply water deeply and infrequently to encourage deep rooting. Sharpen the mower blade before cutting the new stand of grass to avoid tearing out the new plants and reduce the probability of disease infection.