Overseeding Lawn
Tips on Overseeding Your Lawn
If you are one of the many homeowners constantly battling sparse, patchy grass, you may want to consider overseeding your lawn. Just as the term implies, overseeding lawns consists of sowing more seeds over pre-existing lawns, primarily the barren patches or areas needing a little boost. It’s a fairly simple process if done correctly, and this guide will cover the basics for you.
It’s All in the Timing
If your yard consists of cool-season grasses, then chances are that during the hot summer months your grass is taking a severe beating. The reverse is also true for warm-season grasses. Sprinkling additional seeds over your pre-existing lawn isn’t going to be enough however. The desired results take a little logic and know-how to accomplish.
If you are seeking to enhance a dwindling cool-season lawn with warm-season grass, then plan to overseed at the beginning of spring. The seeds you will use are going to grow easier during this time of year, as it is the peak growing time. If you want to use cool-season seeds, then plan for an early fall venture.
Lawn Preparation
Now that the timing is right, you can start making preparations to your soil and lawn. Begin by removing thatch and loosening your soil with a good, hearty raking. This will help your seeds enormously. In addition to this, you may want to aerate the soil in your yard. You may also choose to take this opportunity to check the quality of your soil and adjust its pH level if necessary.
In cases where your topsoil layer is too thin, be it from tree roots poking up from the ground or rocky terrain, you are going to need to add another layer of topsoil before you can sow the new seeds. For areas such as these, add approximately a quarter of an inch of screened topsoil and rake it into the ground.
Now that your soil is ready, you can start preparing your grass. In order to give your new seeds the best chance at survival possible, it is necessary to mow your current lawn as short as you can. Pre-existing grass can cut out sunlight that the seeds need, as well as block contact to the soil. Ideally, your grass should now be an inch and a half to two inches in height. In addition to cutting the grass, you’ll need to rake or bag the grass as well, if your lawnmower doesn’t have the right attachment.
Overseeding
Regardless of the type of seed you decide to purchase, there should be labels indicating both seeding and overseeding recommended rates. Blends and pounds will vary from company to company, so it is wise not to mix brands.
Once you have calculated the proper amount that overseeding your lawn will require, purchase it and consider renting a spreader from your local gardening superplex or home improvement megastore. Spreaders can be set to the various seeding rates, and take the guess work out of overseeding for you. After the initial spreading, spray a light, even mist of water over your lawn to enable germination.
Caring for Your Lawn
The next several weeks will require a bit of diligent care on your part. This stage in growth is key for ensuring that you have a healthy, attractive lawn year round. Many people get confused as to how much or how little they are supposed to water the fledgling grass.
After the initial first watering, it is important to keep your lawn at a constant state of mild dampness. This will entail several watering a day, for at least a few weeks, or until you start to see new grass blades emerging. It is recommended that if you do not have an automatic timed sprinkler, that you consider investing in one. Once the new grass blades pop up, it is still important to water your lawn a couple times a day. Five to six weeks into this process, invest in a fertilizer to help supplement your new grass.
Though it may seem like a daunting task, overseeding your lawn is a fairly simple process once you break it down into steps. It enhances your curb appeal, boosts land value, and generally improves the health of your lawn.