Lawn Overseeding: Plant Now for a Lush Spring Lawn
Your fall lawn’s secret weapon? Dormant seeding! If your lawn is looking a little thin, patchy, or tired after a long season, now is the perfect time to give it a boost — even though everything looks like it's shutting down for winter.
Dormant Overseeding — a smart and simple way to get a thicker, greener lawn in the spring without doing the heavy lifting when the snow melts.
Here’s how it works and how to do it right 👇
What is Dormant Overseeding?
Dormant overseeding means spreading grass seed over an already dormant lawn — usually in late fall, after the grass has stopped growing but before the ground freezes solid.
The seed stays “asleep” all winter, nestled into the soil, and then wakes up and germinates naturally in early spring as soil temps rise. It’s like putting down your lawn’s future while it’s resting.
Why Overseed in Late Fall?
✔️ Thickens up patchy or thinning lawns
✔️ Rejuvenates tired turf from summer stress or damage
✔️ Beats spring rush — no fighting muddy conditions or summer heat
✔️ Less competition from weeds compared to spring seeding
✔️ Low effort, high reward — let nature do the work over winter!
How to Dormant Overseed the Right Way
Here’s your step-by-step guide:
1. Time It Right
Aim to overseed:
After your lawn has gone dormant (not actively growing)
Before the ground is completely frozen
This window usually falls in late October to mid-November, depending on your location.
2. Prep the Lawn
To help your seed make the best contact with the soil:
Thatch or aerate before seeding
Remove leaves or heavy debris
Mow your lawn short (but not scalped)
Good seed-to-soil contact is key!
3. Choose the Right Seed
All lawns aren’t created equal! Choose seed blends that match your site:
Sunny areas
Shady lawns
High traffic zones
Drought-tolerant mixes
We carry a variety of grass seed blends to fit YOUR specific lawn needs.
4. Spread the Seed
Use a broadcast or drop spreader for even coverage. Lightly rake or roll the seed into the soil if needed.
5. Fertilize with Purpose
Use a starter fertilizer like Max Lawn Seed Starter Fertilizer to feed the soil and support early root development once germination begins in spring.
Apply right after seeding for best results.
⚠️ Important!
Don’t overseed if you’ve applied a fall weed preventer (pre-emergent herbicide). It will prevent your new grass seed from sprouting in spring!
What We Carry to Help You Succeed
✅ Premium grass seed blends for sun, shade, and everything in between
✅ Max Lawn Seed Starter Fertilizer
✅ Spreaders, rakes, and lawn tools
✅ Friendly advice to help you get it just right
Don’t Wait — Sow the Seeds of Spring Now!
Your future lawn will thank you. Stop in and let us help you pick the right seed and fertilizer combo to wake up your lawn looking its best in the spring. It’s an easy, affordable step that delivers lush results.