Seeding and reseeding grass : the secret to a perfect lawn

A thick and healthy lawn isn’t just nice to look at, it is also more resilient than a patchy one! In fact, the thicker it is, the stronger it stands against weather challenges like droughts and harsh winters, as well as diseases, pests, and weeds.

Curious about how to achieve a durable lawn? In this article, we will share everything you need to know about seeding a lawn and reseeding grass like a pro to achieve spectacular results.

What’s the difference between seeding and reseeding a lawn?

Seeding means starting a lawn from scratch by spreading grass seeds over bare soil, whereas reseeding means thickening an existing lawn to improve both its appearance and resistance.

In short, you seed grass to establish a new lawn, and you reseed grass to revitalize an existing one.

When is the best time to seed or reseed your grass?

The best time to seed a lawn or reseed grass is in the spring (May/June) or late summer (end of August/beginning of September). These seasons offer cooler temperatures and higher humidity levels, which are great conditions for grass seed germination.

Obviously, the exact timing may vary slightly depending on the region. For example, spring usually starts a bit earlier in Ontario than in Quebec. Therefore, here are a few guidelines to help you out.

Spring: Wait until the risks of ground frost have passed and nighttime temperatures remain above 10 °C (50 °F). Mother Nature’s cue: If dandelions are blooming, it’s time to seed or reseed grass.
Fall: If there are no risks of ground frost and that nighttime temperatures stay above 10 °C (50 °F), you can still seed or reseed your lawn.

By following these timelines, you give your grass the best chance to take root and thrive.

Choosing the right grass seeds

To achieve a healthy and durable lawn, it’s important to choose grass seeds suited to the sun exposure in your yard and your desired level of maintenance. Fafard’s Grass Seed + Nutrients mixes—LOW MAINTENANCE, DENSE SHADE, as well as SUN & SHADE—offer tailored solutions to meet the unique needs of any lawn. Enriched with timed-release nutrients, these mixes will nourish your lawn from germination to maturity. Moreover, as they contain top-quality seeds that are 99.99% weed-free and specifically formulated for the climates of Quebec and Ontario, they are the ideal choice for a lush, resilient, and low-maintenance lawn.

How to seed a new lawn

Planting a lawn from seeds is a cost-effective and customizable solution. By following these simple steps, you’ll get a lawn that meets your expectations!

Test the soil: Start by testing your soil’s pH. A lawn thrives best in a pH of 6.5. Adjust it as needed with dolomitic lime or aluminum sulfate. For detailed advice on the subject, check out the article How to test soil pH and adjust it to suit the needs of your plants.
Prepare the soil: Turn the soil over and remove weeds if necessary.
Add a fertile base: Add a 15 cm (6 in) layer of high-quality soil.
Level the ground: Smooth out the surface and lightly compact it with a lawn roller.
Sow the grass seeds: Use a spreader and overlap passes to ensure even seed distribution.
Lightly cover the seeds: Using the back of a rake, gently cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil. This protects them from the wind and birds while maintaining a good humidity level, which promotes germination. Note: Do not bury the seeds—a thin layer is more than enough!
Water regularly: Keep the soil moist by watering once or twice daily for 20 to 30 minutes without causing runoff. Keep going for approximately two weeks, or until germination occurs. This step is the key to success.
Mow the lawn: When the grass reaches 10 cm (4 in) in height, mow it, leaving a cutting height of 7.5 cm (3 in).
Fertilize: For optimal results, wait at least four weeks before applying a nitrogen-rich fertilizer.

How to reseed an existing patchy lawn

Overseeding existing lawn with a spreader

Reseeding your lawn isn’t rocket science, but the results are out of this world: a lusher, healthier, and weed-free lawn! Here’s the step-by-step method to help you thicken your lawn.

Mow the lawn to the right height: Cut the grass to 5 cm (2 in) for better seed contact with the soil.
Remove weeds: Pull out weeds, including their roots, to prevent them from growing back.
Amend the soil: Spread a thin 3 mm (1/8 in) layer of BIOSOL compost or Viva Lawn soil to enrich the soil and create a seedbed for the new grass.
Spread the seeds evenly: Use a spreader to distribute the seeds evenly, following the instructions on the packaging.
Water carefully: Keep the surface moist for about 15 days by lightly watering daily. Be cautious not to displace the seeds with a strong water jet.

This method is very similar to the one used to repair yellow or damaged patches of lawn. For a detailed guide on this issue, check out our article 5 simple steps to repair damaged lawn surfaces. You’ll find all the tips you need to breathe new life into those problematic areas.

In conclusion, seeding and reseeding grass is the secret to a thick, healthy lawn. With straightforward methods, quality products, and a bit of care, you can enjoy a green space you’ll be proud of. So, are you ready to transform your lawn?

Language Switcher

Seeding and Reseeding Your Lawn

What’s the difference between seeding and reseeding a lawn?

When is the best time to seed or reseed your grass?

Choosing the right grass seeds

How to seed a new lawn

How to reseed an existing patchy lawn