What Is Overseeding?

What is Overseeding?

Overseeding is spreading grass seed over an existing lawn to fill in bare spots and improve its density.

It’s most effective when done during your selected grass’ peak growth season, where they have the best chance to germinate and establish themselves.

The practice rejuvenates lawns and enhances their property’s curb appeal. A thick lawn will also improve soil health and crowd out weeds.

How to Overseed Your Lawn

Overseeding can be your next DIY project. Here’s how to perform it:

1. Mow your lawn to expose barren areas and remove debris and thatch buildup.
2. Bag the grass clippings to ensure the seeds reach the soil.
3. Aerate the lawn to allow the soon-to-be planted grasses to better contact with the soil and enhance access to resources like oxygen, water, and nutrients.
4. Spread the grass seeds on your lawn. You can use a broadcast or drop spreader to ensure consistency. Focus on bare or thin areas.
5. Lightly rake the seeds into the soil to ensure good contact.
6. Apply a thin layer of enriched topsoil or compost for protection and nutrient provision.
7. Keep the lawn moist long enough for the new grasses to germinate. Avoid puddling.
8. Apply a starter fertilizer to help the new grass seed establish strong roots.

Ideally, you should replant the same existing grass in your yard. Using different grass types will create uneven and unattractive patches that will reduce your garden’s visual appeal.

Overseeding: Important Factors to Consider

While one solution does not fit all, there are a few things to keep in mind during this process:

Grass Type and Climate

For cool-season grasses, like bluegrass and fescue, the best time to overseed is in the early fall.

The soil is still warm, and the cooler temperatures are less stressful on the young grass. For warm-season grasses, such as Bermuda, late spring to early summer are best.

Picking a grass that thrives in your local climate is best, but don’t forget to factor in how you use your lawn.

If it’s strictly for aesthetics, finer-textured grasses can make it a visual treat, but only durable grasses can withstand high foot traffic.

Sunlight and Water Requirements

Since not all grasses can endure extended periods of shade, make sure to choose a variety that can thrive, given the amount of sunlight your lawn receives.

Water your plants mindfully and pick grasses that match your capabilities.

If you’re conscious about water usage, consider selecting drought-resistant plants, like bluegrass, and following xeriscape landscaping techniques.

Soil Type and Maintenance

Grasses have different acidity/alkalinity tolerance levels.

Test your soil for its pH and nutrient contents to ensure whichever grass you’ll plant can survive in them, and assess how much time and effort you can dedicate towards helping it thrive.

Other Lawncare Terms to Know

• What Is Fertilizer? See what fertilizer is and how it can assist with nutrient deficiencies in your soil!
• What Is Lawn Care? Beyond overseeding, discover what other aspects go into maintaining a lush lawn!
• What Is Landscaping? Learn how softscaping and harscaping projects are combined to transform your garden!