Transform a sparse, thin lawn into a thick carpet of turf in just a few weeks.
Wake up a thin, lackluster stand of turf with overseeding.
When done right, overseeding can be a fast,low-cost way to add value to your outdoor space.
Credit:Stacy Goldberg
For small areas of turf, all you need is a rake and grass seed.
Large lawns call for specialized equipment, but the process is the same.
Rent the equipment from your local hardware store and accomplish the job in a single afternoon.
Overseed your lawn with ease with the help of these 7 must-know tips.
Overseeding can be a wasteful temporary fix if there is something significant causing poor turf growth.
Does water stand for long periods after a rainstorm?
Address these problems before overseeding.
Each of these causes of thin turf can be remedied with overseeding followed by excellent lawn care.
Time It Right
Where you live and the goal of overseeding will determine the best time to scatter seed.
Grass seed generally germinates and thrives in moderate fall temperatures and regular rainfall.
If you miss the fall seeding window, spring is the next best time.
Overseed around thelast frost date in your area.
Create a thicker, more lush, warm season lawn by overseeding in midspring.
The best time to overseed is when the established grass greens up and begins actively growing.
The exact time can vary from February to April depending on your location.
For a green winter carpet in warm regions, fall is the best time tooverseed with annual ryegrass.
Wait until daytime temperatures are regularly in the 70s and low 80s before overseeding warm season grasses.
Reduce Competition
Prepare to overseed by mowing the existing lawn at a height of 1.5 to 2 inches.
This short mowing height is essential for good seed-to-soil contact.
Some species tolerate lots of foot traffic, while others grow well in dry conditions.
Choose the right pop in of grass for your overseeding area.
Choose a mix that mirrors the growing conditions in your landscape.
Breaking up the soil surface makes a more hospitable home for new seeds.
A core aerator has hollow metal tubes that remove plugs of soil as it passes over the turf.
Make three or four passes with the machine over your lawn.
A vertical mower can be used to get the soil ready for seeds.
The knife-like blades of this machine slice through theupper 14- to 12-inch of soil.
Spread Seed Evenly
For small areas, sow the grass seed by hand.
Scatter it over the area by steadily moving your hand back and forth and allowing the seed to fall.
Scatter the seed in a couple of different directions to ensure good coverage.
Finish by gently raking the area to improve seed-to-soil contact.
For large areas, use a drop seeder or spreader to distribute seeds.
Give New Grass Some TLC
Keep the seeded area moist withlight, frequent watering.
When seedlings reach a height of about 2 inches, increase the mowing height to 3 inches or so.
About 6 weeks after germination, apply a turfgrass fertilizer formulated for new lawns.
