How to Overseed Your Lawn in Fall: Complete Guide

Fall is the ideal time to overseed your lawn. Learn the best techniques for overseeding in autumn to achieve a thick, healthy lawn.

3-4 hours
intermediate
fall

Tools You'll Need

  • Core aerator
  • Seed spreader
  • Lawn mower
  • Rake
  • Garden hose
  • Sprinkler

Materials

  • Grass seed
  • Starter fertilizer
  • Compost
  • Water

Step-by-Step Instructions

1

Prepare Your Lawn

Mow your lawn shorter than usual (1.5-2 inches) and remove all clippings. This allows better seed-to-soil contact.

Pro Tips

  • Mow shorter than normal
  • Remove all clippings
  • Ensure good seed contact
2

Aerate the Lawn

Core aerate your lawn to create holes for seed and improve soil contact. Make multiple passes for thorough coverage.

Pro Tips

  • Use core aerator
  • Make multiple passes
  • Focus on thin areas
3

Apply Starter Fertilizer

Apply a starter fertilizer with high phosphorus to promote root development. Follow package instructions for rates.

Pro Tips

  • Use high-phosphorus fertilizer
  • Follow application rates
  • Apply evenly
4

Spread Grass Seed

Use a seed spreader to apply grass seed evenly. Apply at recommended rates for your grass type.

Pro Tips

  • Use appropriate seed rate
  • Spread evenly
  • Choose right grass type
5

Water and Maintain

Water lightly 2-3 times daily to keep soil moist. Reduce watering frequency as grass establishes.

Pro Tips

  • Keep soil consistently moist
  • Water lightly and frequently
  • Reduce watering as grass grows

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to overseed in fall?

Overseed 6-8 weeks before the first frost. This gives grass time to establish before winter dormancy.

What grass seed should I use for fall overseeding?

Use cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, or fine fescue for fall overseeding.

How much seed should I apply?

Apply 3-5 pounds of seed per 1,000 square feet, depending on your grass type and desired density.

Should I fertilize when overseeding?

Yes, apply a starter fertilizer with high phosphorus to promote root development of new grass seedlings.

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