Overseed a Thin Lawn
Thicker grass crowds out weeds naturally. Overseeding in fall gives you a noticeably better lawn by spring.
Time it right
Cool-season grasses (Kentucky bluegrass, fescue): early fall, 6 weeks before first frost. Warm-season grasses (Bermuda, zoysia): late spring when soil reaches 65°F.
Mow short and bag clippings
Cut the lawn to 2" and bag the clippings. Seed needs to touch soil; long grass blocks contact.
Rake and aerate if needed
Rake up dead thatch. If soil is compacted (common in high-traffic areas), rent a core aerator — it makes a huge difference.
Spread the seed
Use a broadcast spreader and apply at the rate on the bag (usually ~4 lbs per 1,000 sq ft). Walk in two directions — first north-south, then east-west — to avoid stripes.
Top-dress lightly with compost
A 1/4" layer of compost or topsoil holds seed in place and feeds germination.
Water daily until established
Light watering twice a day for the first 2 weeks, then gradually reduce to a normal deep-soak schedule once grass is 2" tall.
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