Lawn Care Tips between Summer and Fall
September 7, 2023
Contact Johnson Landscape for all of your Fall Lawn Needs - Free Estimates Available!
Overseeding your tall fescue lawn in Atlanta during September and October is a great way to revive its health and appearance. Here are some tips to ensure a successful overseeding process:
- Mow and Bag Clippings: Start by mowing your existing fescue lawn to a height of about 2 inches. Bag the clippings to remove any debris and create a clean surface for the new grass seeds to make contact with the soil.
- Aerate the Soil: Aeration is crucial for the success of Overseeding. Request a free quote - Johnson Landscape offer a free aeration quote. Core Aeration will perforate the soil with small holes or plugs. This helps improve soil compaction, allows for better water and nutrient penetration, and creates space for the new grass roots to establish themselves. Make sure to contact Johnson Landscape a few weeks before you plan to overseed to give the soil time to recover.
- Spread Starter Fertilizer: Apply a high-quality starter fertilizer specifically designed for grass seeding. This will provide the new grass seedlings with essential nutrients for healthy growth. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the proper application rate. Contact Johnson Landscape for your fertilizer application.
- Choose the Right Grass Seed: Select a premium tall fescue grass seed blend suitable for your region's climate and soil type. Look for varieties that are disease-resistant and well-suited to Atlanta's conditions. Consider a blend that includes both Kentucky bluegrass and perennial ryegrass for added resilience and color.
- Even Seed Distribution: Use a broadcast spreader to evenly distribute the grass seed over the prepared lawn. Follow the recommended seeding rate on the seed package, typically around 6-8 pounds of seed per 1,000 square feet.
- Rake and Roll: After spreading the grass seed, lightly rake the soil to cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil. Rolling the area with a lawn roller helps ensure good seed-to-soil contact, which is essential for germination.
- Watering: Keep the overseeded area consistently moist, but avoid overwatering, as this can wash away seeds or promote disease. Water daily or as needed to prevent the soil from drying out until the new grass reaches a height of about 2 inches.
- Mowing Care: Once the new grass reaches the recommended mowing height (usually around 3 inches), mow it for the first time. Be gentle during this initial mowing to avoid damaging the young seedlings.
- Regular Maintenance: Continue to care for your overseeded lawn with regular watering, mowing, and fertilizing as needed. Avoid heavy foot traffic on the newly seeded areas until the grass is well-established.
- Pro Tip: As mentioned, October is an excellent time to establish a new lawn with tall fescue in Atlanta's climate. Follow similar steps, but pay extra attention to soil preparation and consistent watering to ensure the success of your new lawn.
By following these tips, you can overseed your tall fescue lawn effectively, resulting in a lush and healthy lawn for the coming seasons.
