Quck answer
Overseeding is a process of planting grass seeds over an existing lawn to fill in thin or bare areas. When it comes to overseeding St. Augustine grass, there are a few important steps to follow. First, prepare the lawn by mowing it short and raking away any debris. Next, choose the right type of grass seed that is compatible with St. Augustine. Then, spread the seed evenly over the lawn, making sure to cover all thin areas. Afterward, lightly water the lawn daily to keep the soil moist until the new grass starts to grow. Finally, avoid mowing the lawn until the new grass reaches a height of 3-4 inches. By following these steps, you can successfully overseed St. Augustine grass and achieve a lush, healthy lawn.
St. Augustine grass is a warm season grass that is commonly grown in the southern regions of the United States. This grass is native to the regions surrounding the Gulf of Mexico and is well-liked by gardeners for its compressed grass blades that contribute to a dense texture for lawns. If you have an older lawn that has bare areas, overseeding St. Augustine grass will produce a denser lawn.
Step 1
Choose a time in September to overseed the lawn. Mow the grass at a low setting, but make sure to not cut off more than one-third of the grass blade. You may need to mow the lawn twice to achieve a grass blade that is one inch in height. Short grass helps the St. Augustine seed germinate.
Step 2
Rake up all of the grass clippings on the lawn. Water the lawn area for three consecutive days to produce a moist, but not over-saturated soil.
Step 3
Fill a seeder with PLS (pure live seed) St. Augustine grass seed. Use half a pound of seed for every 1,000 square feet. Push the seeder back and forth across the lawn area for an even spread.
Step 4
Rake 1/8 of an inch of compost over the seed and water the area thoroughly. Fertilize the grass seed with a fertilizer that is high in phosphorous or a balanced fertilizer with an NPK (nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium) amount of 20-20-20.
Step 5
Fertilize the grass seed with a slow-release fertilizer that is high in nitrogen three months after seeding. Use about one pound of nitrogen for every 1,000 square feet. Water the grass area to activate the fertilizer.
FAQ
1. What is overseeding and why is it important for St. Augustine grass?
Overseeding is the process of spreading grass seeds over an existing lawn to promote thicker and healthier turf. It is important for St. Augustine grass because it tends to thin out over time, leaving bare patches and making it more susceptible to weed growth. Overseeding helps fill in these bare areas and rejuvenate the lawn.
2. When is the best time to overseed St. Augustine grass?
The best time to overseed St. Augustine grass is during the late spring or early summer when the soil temperature is consistently above 70В°F (21В°C). This is when the existing grass is actively growing, and the warm soil provides optimal conditions for seed germination and establishment.
3. How should I prepare my lawn for overseeding St. Augustine grass?
Before overseeding, it is important to mow your lawn at a low height to expose the soil and remove any thatch or debris. Raking the soil lightly will help create a better seed-to-soil contact. It is also recommended to aerate the lawn to improve soil compaction and allow better penetration of water and nutrients.
4. What type of grass seeds should I use for overseeding St. Augustine grass?
When overseeding St. Augustine grass, it is best to use a grass seed blend that contains a mix of St. Augustine grass varieties. This ensures better genetic diversity and increases the chances of successful germination and establishment. Look for a seed blend specifically formulated for warm-season grasses.
5. How do I care for my lawn after overseeding St. Augustine grass?
After overseeding, it is important to water the lawn regularly to keep the soil moist but not saturated. Avoid mowing the grass until it reaches a height of at least 3 inches (7.6 cm) to allow the new seedlings to establish. Once the grass is well-established, resume regular lawn care practices such as mowing, fertilizing, and weed control.