Preparations for Over seeding Lawns

Since you will be sowing seed not over an open stretch of soil, but rather over existing grass, take into
consideration that the seed will be competing with that existing grass. If nothing else, the latter will rob the seed of
some sunlight. To give the seed a better chance, mow the existing grass, cutting it shorter than you normally
would. Normally, you should cut grass to a height of 3"-3.5". In this case, reduce that height to 1.5"-2". Also, bag or
rake up the clippings in preparation for Over seeding lawns, even if normally you don't. You want to give seeds the
best chance of making good contact with the soil, and clippings would just get in the way.

Another step to take to promote contact between seeds and soil is core aeration, or "lawn aeration." This step will
help reduce lawn thatch, which stands in the way between grass seeds and the soil they'd like
to call home.
In severe cases, you may need to add a layer of topsoil before Over seeding lawns. For instance, due to shallow
tree roots popping up on the lawn, your topsoil layer may be too thin. Spread 1/4" of screened topsoil over such an
area, and rake it in.


Over seeding Lawns

The bag of grass seed that you buy for Over seeding lawns should have information on the back concerning
recommended seeding rates and Over seeding rates. Note the difference: you don't need to spread as much
seed when Over seeding lawns as when starting new lawns.

For the proper operation  of Over seeding lawns, use a spreader. Set the spreader to the recommended Over
seeding rate. At the same time, apply a starter fertilizer for better results.

The grass seeds must be watered properly, in order to germinate. Use just a fine spray, as you don't want to
create a flood! The soil should be kept evenly moist, which may mean waterings once or twice per day
(depending on the weather), for several weeks.

After the grass blades sprout, you'll still need to water a few times per week.

Five weeks after the grass has sprouted, apply a quick-release nitrogen fertilizer at the recommended rate; repeat
in another six weeks.

The best time for Over seeding lawns that have cool-season grasses is in September; the second-best time for
Over seeding lawns is in March .









© 2000 Payless Lawn care
Seeding your lawn
Over seeding Any size yard up to 12000 Sq ft.

Over seeding only - $100

Over seed + fertilizer - $165

Aeration + Over Seed - $200

Aeration + fertilizer - $165

Aeration + Over seed + fertilizer - $255

Lime Only - $55

Lime + Aeration  - $155

Lime + Aeration + Fertilizer - $220

Lime + over seed - $155

Lime + over seed + fertilizer - $220

Lime + Aeration + Over seed - $255

Lime + Aeration + Over seed + Fertilizer - $320

Larger yards  over 12000 sq ft. Get a free estimate.

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