Winter Lawn Care

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Overseeding - The Basics

Here in the desert southwest we are blessed with mild and enjoyable weather between fall and spring. Planting a winter lawn makes sense because it creates a beautiful carpet of green when it can be enjoyed to its fullest.

Step 1: Prepare the seedbed

1. In preparing to overseed, cut watering of summer lawn to no more than once per week starting one to two weeks prior to the seeding process.
2. Mow the summer grass at the lowest setting on the lawn mower essentially "scalping" the lawn area.
3. If, upon closer inspection, there is a thick layer of dead grass on the soil surface it may be necessary to dethatch or rake the lawn. It is very important that the seed contact the soil.
4. If nothing exists in area for new lawn, simply level and rake smooth.

Step 2: Sow the seed

1. Sow the seed at the recommended rate. Perennial Ryegrass is sownm at 10 lbs. per 1000 sq. ft. For ease of spreading the seed over larger areas use a broadcast push spreader or a hand-held broadcast spreader.
2. Topdress the lawn with a thin layer of mulch or manure to keep the seed moist and protected while it germinates. Usually 1/8" to 1/4" is sufficient.
3. An optional addition would be some sort of a starter fertilizer. It would normally be a low-Nitrogen, higher phosphorous potassium type of formulation.

Step 3: Germination

1. For the first 10 to 14 days the seeded lawn must be kept MOIST. The most common reason for failure with winter lawns is to let the seed dry out in the germination process. If it is possible, sprinkle the area lightly three to five times per day. Avoid making puddles as this can cause seed to move.
2. Avoid heavy traffic until first mowing. Mow for the first time when most of the lawn is 1 1/2" to 2" high.

Step 4: Maintenance

1. Water on average 1 to 3 times per week. Moisture needs vary with temps and rain.
2. Feed every 6 to 8 weeks with a high nitrogen fertilizer. Turf Royale is available locally. Be cautious with "hot" types of fertilizers because they can burn if over applied or not watered in properly.