After a stressful summer, turfgrass can take damage that reduces overall thickness and resiliency, making it easier for turf weeds to form and diseases to take hold. Overseeding can be a tool to help. Overseeding in the fall is a great way for landscapers to repair damaged areas, thicken lawns, strengthen root systems, prepare for cooler weather, enhance turf resilience, prevent erosion, and improve the overall color and texture of the turfgrass. Below we go through each step in the process and provide tips to ensure a successful recovery.
How to Overseed Lawn in Fall
September 18, 2024
Turf Preparation
It is recommended to begin the overseeding process once night-time temperatures average around 60 degrees. Once the ideal temperature is reached, cut the grass shorter than usual to increase the seed-to-soil contact. Next, consider performing a core aeration of the area. Although not a requirement, this process can reduce soil compaction, making it easier for new grass to establish and decrease the likelihood of turf weeds. To minimize further damage, the turfgrass must be well watered before aeration begins.
After cutting and aeration is complete, it is vital to dethatch and rake to remove debris and increase the amount of contact the seed has with the soil. If you performed core aeration, leave the plugs around, as these will naturally break down and help provide nutrients to the soil. Once this is all complete apply a fertilizer with lower nitrogen and higher phosphate and potassium. This formulation reduces top growth, stimulates roots, and helps turfgrass prepare for winter.
Seed Application
About three days after dethatching is done and fertilizer has been applied, you can spread turf seed. When choosing your seed, quality matters. Utilize a high-quality seed mixture with a high germination rate free from weeds. Apply clean, poa-free seed a few days after fertilizer application. About 10-15 lbs. of seed per 1,000 sq. ft. is a good rule of thumb. To ensure even seed distribution, use a broadcast spreader and make two passes in opposite directions for uniform coverage. After spreading, lightly rake the area or use a roller to press the seeds into the soil, ensuring optimal seed-to-soil contact.
After Care
Once the seed is placed, continue to irrigate lightly until grass blades appear. During initial watering, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged is important. After the turfgrass grows, reduce the watering frequency but increase the watering depth to encourage deeper root growth.
Once the turfgrass has grown and established (about 3 inches) give it a good mow. The initial cut should be performed at a higher setting to avoid stressing the young grass. One week after the first mow, utilize a higher nitrogen or all-around fertilizer (e.g. 15-15-15) to promote top growth and support root establishment.
Ongoing Care
Continue to monitor the overseeded area throughout the fall and into winter. During this time avoid applying herbicides until the turfgrass is well-established since doing so can harm young seedlings. Also, because the ground is sensitive it is important to keep foot traffic to a minimum, especially if the ground is wet. Although not required, lightly covering straw or mulch in areas prone to erosion where seeds might wash away can protect the seeds and retain moisture.
Remember that patience and careful attention are essential when managing newly established turfgrass. If you’ve properly prepared the soil, applied a high-quality seed mixture, and prioritized aftercare, you can feel confident in the future success of your new turf.
BEST® Fertilizer Recommendations
Below are some BEST® fertilizer products to use during the overseeding process.
Turf Preparation
6-24-24 XB™+
Apply at 4.1-8.3 lbs./1,000 sq. ft.
12,000 sq ft per bag
During turf preparation
After Care
Triple Pro™
Apply at 6.7 lbs./1,000 sq. ft.
7,500 sq. ft. per bag
About 30 days after overseeding
Turf Supreme®
Apply at 6.3 lbs./1,000 sq. ft.
8,000 sq. ft. per bag
Ongoing Care
Nitra King®
Apply at 4.76 lbs./1,000 sq. ft.
10,500 sq. ft. per bag
Every 4-6 weeks after initial application and every 4-6 weeks throughout the cooler season.
