How Does An Overseeder Work?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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The operating principle of an overseeder is straightforward:

it cuts slits in soil and have the hopper dumping the seed out

. The key thing is planting grass seeds directly into your existing turf is an easier strategy to fill in the bare spots and can ultimately enhance your lawn's general health and appearance.

How long does it take to use an Overseeder?

That is to say that an overseeder primary function is to sow new over the current grass. Specifically, the machine distributes seeds across the whole area. The overseeded lawn typically becomes fully established in

about eight weeks

(or less) if done the right way.

Does overseeding actually work?

The experts all agree that

regular overseeding is vital to help thicken your lawn and fill in bare spots

, which reduces or eliminates competition from weeds. The reasoning is that young grass will produce new growth faster than older grass. After several years, mature plants begin to slow down their reproduction rate.

What do Overseeders do?

Basic Use of the Overseeder


Adjust the delivering trap allowing the seeds to dropped or spread at the proper rate

. Walking behind the overseeder at a steady pace ensures even spreading. Closing the delivery trap when turning avoids dropping a cluster of seeds at the point of your turn.

Do I need to aerate if I use an Overseeder?


It is not a must that you aerate your lawn before overseeding

. However, since aeration loosens up compacted soil, improving the supply of oxygen, and provides nutrients and minerals to the new grass seed, it will improve germination and growth rates and help the grass grow thicker faster.

When should I use an Overseeder?


Late summer or early fall

is the best time to overseed lawns. Soil and atmospheric temperatures are most favorable for optimum seed germination and growth. With adequate moisture, fertilizer and sunlight, the new seedlings will be well established before cooler fall weather sets in.

Is an Overseeder the same as a slice seeder?

Slice Seeder creates a uniform lawn bed for planting, whereas

Overseeder drops seeds

on your lawn as it is. Slice Seeder is designed to hammer seeds into the ground for better soil and seed contact, whereas Overseeder has a seed spreader that sprays seeds all over your lawn.

What month is best to put grass seed down?

Generally speaking, you can plant grass seed any time of the year, but

fall

is the best time to seed a lawn with a cool season turfgrass variety. Spring is the best time to plant warm season turfgrass seed.

Will grass seed grow if you just throw it on the ground?

If you throw grass on the

ground it will grow

, but we would recommend throwing a layer of mulch or soil over the seeds that helps promote growth. Bermuda seed needs to be covered to germinate.

Can you put too much grass seed down?


Don't overdo

or cut corners. Too much grass seed causes undue competition for resources such as light, water and nutrients, and grass seedlings struggle as a result. Too little seed leaves lawns thin or bare.

Can you put grass seed and fertilizer down at the same time?

When seeding a lawn,

you should never apply the fertilizer and seed together

. This can cause an uneven distribution of the materials resulting in patchy areas or seedlings burned by excess fertilizer. It is best to spread the fertilizer just prior to planting the seed.

How much does an Overseeder cost?

It costs an average of

$0.10 to $0.20 per square foot

to reseed or overseed a lawn. Some of the factors that influence the cost per square foot include what type of seed you use, labor costs, and the condition of your lawn.

Is aeration overseeding worth it?

To revitalize your grass, you may consider aerating and overseeding, or creating holes in your soil to plant fresh seedlings. In fact, when done correctly, aerating and overseeding

can be extremely beneficial to the wellbeing of your

turf.

Should I seed or aerate first?

The seed, fertilizer, and water will have the best chance to get down into the holes made by the aerator if applied

soon after aeration

.

Is it best to aerate before seeding?

As with most larger lawn projects, such as planting grass seed, it's best to

aerate during or right before the time your grasses reach their peak time for natural growth

. Aeration is good for lawns, but it can stress grass if timed improperly. … Overly dry soil can be tough to aerate, so moisture eases the process.

Should I overseed or fertilize first?


You can fertilize your lawn before or after overseeding

. Both tactics work to feed your new grass seed. It's best to fertilize within 3 days of seeding. This means you can spread your starter fertilizer a few days before you lay down your seed or a few days after.

Emily Lee
Author
Emily Lee
Emily Lee is a freelance writer and artist based in New York City. She’s an accomplished writer with a deep passion for the arts, and brings a unique perspective to the world of entertainment. Emily has written about art, entertainment, and pop culture.