| You can overseed your lawn in either spring or fall. That's when temperatures are cool and rainfall usually abundant. Before you reseed the lawn, remove all the weeds, debris, and dead grass from the area by manually pulling weeks or using weed killer. If you use weed killer, be sure to follow the directions which should specify how long it will take to be effective, before you reseed. Next, loosen the soil with a rake. If there is excessive thatch, which is dead grass and roots, you may need to rent a power rake or dethatcher to remove the dead material. Once the soil has been prepared, choose your grass seed. You should use a seed that is similar to the grass that is already in your lawn, and is appropriate for your zone. This will prevent unsightly spots where one area may be greener or have smaller blades than another. Scattering the seed by hand is sufficient, but if you are reseeding an entire lawn, it is better to use a mechanical spreader to ensure even coverage. Set it for three to four pounds per 1,000 square feet. Rake the seed into the soil so it makes good contact with the soil. If it is lying on top of existing grass, it may not sprout, and may become the neighborhood birds? next meal. If birds are likely to be a major problem, you can cover the seeded area with weed-free straw or hay, or about a quarter inch of mulch. After you reseed, it is important that you keep the soil moist by watering it twice a day. The grass will germinate in about two weeks. Once the grass starts to grow, mow it. The ideal length for grass is two to two and a half inches, which encourages deeper rooting. Best wishes with your new lawn! |
