What Is Overseeding Grass Seed?

Function

• Overseeding is used to repair lawn defects. These defects should not exceed 25 percent to 40 percent of the overall lawn. Some common defects include bare spots and sections of lawn overrun by weeds.

Benefits

• The benefits of overseeding are to improve the overall appearance and health of the lawn. This is a quick and effective way to make improvements.

Types

• Grass can be a warm- or cool-season variety. Warm-season grasses, such as Bermuda grass, grow during the summer, thrive during great heat and are typically found in the southern United States. Cool-season grasses, such as Kentucky bluegrass, grow during the spring and fall, and are found in the northern regions.

Time Frame

• Generally, grass will grow if conditions are appropriate. However, the time frame and season are also important. For example, Bermuda grass can grow in northern states during the summer but probably will not be as green in the spring and fall. For best results, choose grass that has the best chance of thriving during the season you sow it.

Expert Insight

• According to "The Home Depot: Lawns 1-2-3," it is a good idea to stop fertilizing your lawn four weeks before overseeding. In addition, watering should be reduced by 50 percent two weeks before you start. This will minimize the competition between the new seed and the existing lawn.