How to Overseed Your Lawn in Spring: Complete Guide

Spring overseeding can help repair winter damage and thicken your lawn. Learn the proper techniques for successful spring overseeding.

3-4 hours
intermediate
spring

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

Assess Winter Damage

Walk your lawn to identify bare spots, thin areas, and winter damage. Mark areas that need overseeding.

Pro Tips

  • Identify bare spots
  • Check for winter damage
  • Mark problem areas
2

Prepare the Soil

Rake up debris and aerate thin areas. For bare spots, loosen the soil surface to improve seed contact.

Pro Tips

  • Remove winter debris
  • Aerate thin areas
  • Loosen bare spot soil
3

Apply Starter Fertilizer

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

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 Monitor

Water lightly 2-3 times daily to keep soil moist. Monitor for germination and adjust watering as needed.

Pro Tips

  • Keep soil consistently moist
  • Water lightly and frequently
  • Monitor germination

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I overseed in spring?

Overseed in early spring when soil temperatures reach 50-55°F and grass begins actively growing.

Can I overseed warm-season grasses in spring?

Yes, spring is the ideal time to overseed warm-season grasses like Bermuda, Zoysia, and St. Augustine.

Should I apply pre-emergent if overseeding?

No, avoid pre-emergent herbicides when overseeding as they can prevent grass seed from germinating.

How long does spring overseeding take to show results?

You should see germination within 7-14 days, with full establishment taking 3-4 weeks depending on conditions.

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