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Adding seed to existing grass is often known as overseeding, as opposed to reseeding. Reseeding refers to the process of filling in bare or dying patches of lawn—or in some cases, full lawns—whereas reseeding supports existing lawns to prevent thinning. Overseeding is an ideal annual lawn care practice for grass fighting drought, disease, weeds, or pest issues.

DIY solutions often lack precise formulation and distribution, potentially leading to lawn damage. Professional treatments optimize results with targeted applications.

The best time to plant grass seed depends on your local climate and whether you have cool-season or warm-season grass.

For cool-season grasses (like tall fescue), the ideal time to seed is late summer or early fall (typically August and September). During this period, the soil is still warm from the summer, but the air is cooler, creating optimal conditions for germination and root establishment before winter. There is also less competition from weeds. Spring is a secondary option, but cooler soil temperatures, the risk of a late frost, and less time for the grass to mature before summer heat can make it less successful.

For warm-season grasses (like St. Augustine), the best time to plant is from late spring through mid-summer (typically May and June), when temperatures are consistently between 75 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit.

In general, it is best to avoid seeding during winter or early spring, as cold soil and air can prevent seeds from germinating. For recommendations tailored to your specific grass type and climate, consider consulting a local lawn care professional.

One of the best ways to save money on lawn care is to sign up for an annual contract for ongoing service rather than paying for one-off or as-needed services. If you guarantee a landscaping company ongoing work, they’re more likely to give you a break on the cost. Plus, ongoing services will keep your property in tip-top shape and help avoid the high cost of playing catch up on an overgrown lawn. You can also save money by sticking to the basics and foregoing add-on services like weeding and pest treatments.