Can you just throw grass seed on an existing lawn?

• <div><p>Throwing grass seed on existing lawn isn’t likely to germinate, grow roots, or become healthy grass. You need to prep the soil, <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/fertilizing-101-yard-and-garden.htm">spread fertilizer</a> with your seed, and sow the seed into the soil. Water the seed every day for two weeks to ensure it germinates and grows roots. Be sure to stay off the area and wait to mow until it reaches optimal height.</p></div>

Get matched with top lawn irrigation specialists in Philip, SD

Q: Can you just throw grass seed on an existing lawn?

• <div><p>Throwing grass seed on existing lawn isn&rsquo;t likely to germinate, grow roots, or become healthy grass. You need to prep the soil, <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/fertilizing-101-yard-and-garden.htm">spread fertilizer</a> with your seed, and sow the seed into the soil. Water the seed every day for two weeks to ensure it germinates and grows roots. Be sure to stay off the area and wait to mow until it reaches optimal height.</p></div>

Q: When should you aerate your lawn?

• <div><p>Your lawn needs to recover after aeration, so make sure the work is done at some point during its peak growing season. This will depend on your region and the type of grass you have, but generally, aerate once or twice per year, either during the late spring, early summer, or early fall.</p></div>

Q: What seasons are ideal for lawn aeration to promote healthy grass growth?

• <div><p>Aerate during the growing season, typically in spring or fall, when grass can quickly recover.</p></div>

Q: How do I make my ryegrass thicker?

• <div><p>Make your ryegrass thicker by boosting soil health. Add organic matter, aerate the lawn if the soil is compacted, fertilize appropriately, and see if your lawn needs dethatching. Your local lawn care service can come and look at your lawn and provide specific advice and remedies for your lawn issues.</p></div>

Q: Is Bahia grass hard to grow?

• <div><p>Bahia grass is not difficult to grow, but you might need patience for this slow-growing grass. Whereas some grass species, like Bermuda grass, can take 1 to 2 weeks to germinate, Bahia grass can take two or three times as long, making it seem like it won&rsquo;t grow. But again, once your Bahia grass is established, it requires little maintenance. Its deep root system makes it a very durable grass that can bounce back after freezes and droughts. </p></div>

Enter your ZIP and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your lawn irrigation project in Philip, SD?

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

Find Lawn irrigation specialists in Philip

Yankton Irrigation

No reviews yet

Yankton Irrigation

No reviews yet

Free onsite estimate

Yankton Irrigation and Custom Curbing Company Inc have served Yankton, Vermillion and the surrounding area since 1989. We provide experienced, professional installation and courteous customer service. Yankton Irrigation and Custom Curbing Company Inc offers the following: • Residential, commercial and industrial projects • Sprinkler irrigation systems • Concrete lawn edging • Rock gardens • Prompt quality service • Free estimates • Convenient payment options Please contact us today to schedule your personalized consultation.

Lawn Irrigation questions, answered by experts

Throwing grass seed on existing lawn isn’t likely to germinate, grow roots, or become healthy grass. You need to prep the soil, spread fertilizer with your seed, and sow the seed into the soil. Water the seed every day for two weeks to ensure it germinates and grows roots. Be sure to stay off the area and wait to mow until it reaches optimal height.

Your lawn needs to recover after aeration, so make sure the work is done at some point during its peak growing season. This will depend on your region and the type of grass you have, but generally, aerate once or twice per year, either during the late spring, early summer, or early fall.

Aerate during the growing season, typically in spring or fall, when grass can quickly recover.

Make your ryegrass thicker by boosting soil health. Add organic matter, aerate the lawn if the soil is compacted, fertilize appropriately, and see if your lawn needs dethatching. Your local lawn care service can come and look at your lawn and provide specific advice and remedies for your lawn issues.

Bahia grass is not difficult to grow, but you might need patience for this slow-growing grass. Whereas some grass species, like Bermuda grass, can take 1 to 2 weeks to germinate, Bahia grass can take two or three times as long, making it seem like it won’t grow. But again, once your Bahia grass is established, it requires little maintenance. Its deep root system makes it a very durable grass that can bounce back after freezes and droughts.

The Philip, SD homeowners’ guide to lawn irrigation services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

Breyden Kellam
•
Jun 4, 2025Jun 4, 2025
How Much Does a French Drain Cost? [2025 Data]
A French drain costs around $9,250 to install, but several factors will determine the final price you pay. Learn the cost to install French drains in this guide.
Angi
•
Oct 22, 2025Oct 22, 2025
How Much Does Sprinkler System Repair Cost? [2025 Data]
Find out the average sprinkler system repair cost, what impacts pricing, and how to save. Get transparent estimates to plan your sprinkler repair project.
Angi
•
Oct 22, 2025Oct 22, 2025
How Much Does It Cost to Winterize a Sprinkler System? [2025 Data]
Discover the cost to winterize a sprinkler system, including average prices, key cost factors, and tips to save. Learn what impacts your estimate and how to budget.
Jenna Jonaitis
•
Mar 5, 2025Mar 5, 2025
How to Clean a Sprinkler Valve: Step-by-Step Instructions
A clogged or dirty sprinkler valve can cause your sprinkler head to run even when it shouldn’t. Learn how to clean a sprinkler valve with a few tools.
Jenna Jonaitis
•
Mar 7, 2025Mar 7, 2025
How Smart Sprinklers Work to Make Your Yard Stand Out
How do smart sprinklers work? Like all smart technology, smart irrigation systems use the power of the internet and real-time data to adjust your watering schedule. Learn more.
Paige Bennett
•
Mar 12, 2025Mar 12, 2025
How to Adjust Sprinkler Heads in Your Irrigation System
Sprinkler heads can develop angle and spray problems, requiring some important adjustments. Adjusting sprinkler heads is DIY-friendly with the right tools.