Can you get a lush, green lawn just by throwing some grass seeds over the turf? It may not always bring the desired result. It is akin to throwing some seeds into a forest, thinking it will turn into a garden! Let’s take a close look at what may happen when you try this method and what overseeding can bring.
Why Throwing Grass Seed on an Existing Lawn Often Fails
You may think that since grass grows on the soil, it will also grow on an existing turf, right? It is not that easy. The soil at the bottom of your lawn may be wrapped in thatch- a mix of organic matter and dead grass. Grass seeds need proper and direct contact with soil for germination. They might dry out or be eaten by birds before sprouting.
Existing grass often absorbs water, nutrients, and sunlight, leaving little for the new seeds. On a dense and healthy lawn, new seeds will struggle to germinate. If the lawn has bald patches, there could be underlying issues like disease, soil quality, or pests.
Successful germination rates for overseeding can be around 10% or less, with some studies indicating rates as low as 2% under less-than-ideal conditions1. In contrast, high-quality grass seed in optimal situations can achieve germination rates between 85% to 90%
The Difference between Overseeding and Throwing Seeds
Overseeding is more methodical than spreading grass seeds. It involves the following steps:
- Preparation – Mowing the lawn and then removing the debris.
- Aeration – Making small holes in the soil to boost seed-to-soil contact.
- Seed Selection – Picking the right types of seed for your turf and climate.
- Spreading – Applying the seeds evenly for consistent coverage.
- Topdressing – Covering the seeds with compost and soil lightly to safeguard them from getting washed away.
- Watering – Moistening the area for proper germination.
By throwing seeds, most of these steps are skipped. It may save time and require no tools, but the efficacy is less. Overseeding involves a lot more precision, and the results tend to be much better.
When Throwing Grass Seed Might Actually Work
In some scenarios, you can get better results by throwing seeds:
- Mild Climate – In places with moderate temperatures and consistent rainfall, seeds germinate easily.
- Thin Lawns – In patchy and thin lawns, spreading seeds might just work.
- High-Quality Soil – In lawns with nutrient-rich and loose soil, seeds sprout without much difficulty.
Even in these scenarios, watering the soil regularly will be necessary. Also, ensure minimal foot traffic.
Why Overseeding Is the Superior Option
If you seek a thick, lush and vibrant lawn, go for overseeding. It works well with bare patches and helps rejuvenate old lawns. A boost in drought tolerance boost is an added benefit. When the turf density goes up, weeds get overshadowed by grasses in the lawn. This way, you can thwart the growth of unwanted plants without using chemicals.
You can tailor overseeding to suit your landscaping needs. You may blend some drought-resistant grass varieties or choose variants suited for shady lawns. It takes more effort, but the results are surely worth it.
The customary seeding rate for overseeding typically ranges from 20 to 25 grams per square meter.
Tips for Successful Overseeding
- Timing is everything – Choose early fall or spring for overseeding. Consistent rainfall and cooler temperatures speed up the germination process.
- Fertilize smartly – Use a fertilizer, but do not go overboard.
- Don’t neglect maintenance – Ensure the lawn remains moist but not too soggy. Light watering is all you need.
Why Lawn Aeration Is a Game-Changer
Aerating a lawn removes cores or small plugs of soil. This leads to enhanced airflow and boosts the supply of oxygen, water, and nutrients to the roots and soil. If the soil is clay-heavy, this can be crucial. Aeration also makes the soil ready for the new seeds. The new aeration holes allow those seeds to germinate properly instead of being spread randomly on compacted soil. Remember, seeds sitting on the top of the soil can easily be washed and blown away.
Cost Comparison: Overseeding vs. Throwing Seeds
Throwing grass seed on the turf is quite cheap, but it has a reduced success rate. Overseeding involves the use of specific tools like an aerator, and you may have to buy compost, too. However, you will get better outcomes.
Conclusion
Throwing grass seed on an existing lawn may lead to germination. However, the results may not be optimal. Overseeding needs more effort and cost, but it brings better results, giving you a lush, healthier lawn. A beautiful lawn needs effort and planning, after all.
Last modified: January 13, 2025
