How to Seed a Shady Lawn

Eliminate weeds from the planting site by applying a glyphosate-based herbicide. Follow the manufacturer's directions for application, rate, and safety precautions. Remove additional weeds by pulling the entire root structure from the ground. Discard these weeds away from the site.

Amend the soil with organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure. Incorporate 6 inches of the material deeply into the soil across the planting site. This provides drainage and nutrients for the long-term growth and health of your lawn.

Test the soil's pH with a home testing kit. Grass seed prefers a soil pH of 6.0 to 7.0. The test kit will provide recommendations for any needed soil amendments; ask experts at your local university extension office for advice based on your location and soil type.

Prune trees and large shrubs that cast shadows on the lawn site to provide the maximum amount of light.

Plant red fescue seed for the best results in shady locations, according to experts at the University of Illinois Extension. Sow the seed in fall or very early spring, depending on your region. Broadcast the seed at a rate of 3 to 5 lbs. per 1,000 square feet of planting area. Cover the area in one direction, then seed the area in the other direction.

Rake the seeds lightly into the topsoil. Water well. Keep foot traffic away from the area while the grass is establishing.

Mow the established shady lawn no lower than 3 inches, as opposed to the typical 2-inch level for sunny lawns. Mowing less frequently reduces stress on the grass.

Fertilize the new lawn with a nitrogen-based fertilizer. One application of 1 to 2 lbs. per 1,000 square feet of lawn is sufficient.

Water the lawn deeply, only when necessary. Frequent light applications of water will cause growth problems.

Discourage human and animal traffic, if possible, across shady lawn sites. This protects the more fragile grass in that location.