Overseeding your lawn can help thicken your turf, creating a fuller, healthier yard while keeping weeds from filling in thin or bare spots. This is a great early Fall project, as the season’s higher moisture and cooler temperatures helps new turf start strong.

Project requires

Preferred Seed, Starter Fertilizer, Lawn Mower, Heavy-duty Broom Rake, Bow Rake (optional), Drop Spreader or Seed Spreader, Sprinkler or other watering method (optional).
 
1. OUT WITH THE OLD

Set your blade to the lowest setting and mow your lawn short. Use the heavy-duty broom rake to loosen and clear lawn clippings, thatch and debris. For heavy build-up, a bow rake can loosen up the thatch. This helps seed reach the soil.


2. SPREAD YOUR SEED

Use the broadcast or drop spreader to spread seed over the entire lawn according to the product label. There is no need to overdo it. Only about six seeds per square inch will germinate. Sow the seed too thickly and you’re simply wasting seed.


3. FEED THE SEED

Spread the fertilizer over the entire area. Starter fertilizers typically contain more phosphorous than most other types, which helps new seed develop roots.


4. KEEP IT HYDRATED

Lightly mist the overseeded area. Keep the soil moist by spraying it with a light mist two or three times a day, until the grass is about 1" high. In some cases dew or rainfall will do this part of the job for you, so keep an eye on the weather. After the grass reaches 1”, drop watering to about once a week until the new grass reaches 3" tall. It should now be strong enough to treat as you would any other part of your lawn.