Faq – About Aerating The Lawn And Overseeding
James asks…
When can I mow after overseeding my lawn?
I live in Columbus Ohio. I had my yard aerated and then the next day overseeded with Rye, Fecue, and Kent Bluegrass. I also put down starter fertilizer. This all happened about 10 days ago. I have been watering it almost every morning to make sure the new seed grows in well. My question is when can I mow my grass for the first time and how low or high should I mow it. The grass is very healthy and green. I am good about taking care of it during the year. Thanks in advance for you help.
Staff answers:
You need to resist the urge for about 2-3 weeks.
George asks…
Can I mow after aeration BEFORE overseeding?
Someone just aerated the lawn and I found out I was supposed to cut the grass shorter and pick up the clippings which I didn’t. I would like to mow again before I seed but can I mow now that it’s been aerated?
Staff answers:
You’ll have to rake the lawn to remove the aeration cores and remove loose grass clippings. Then go ahead and reseed.
Yeah, you’ll be compacting the lawn abit by walking over to mow…….but next time you’ll know to mow first. Life and learn.
Donna asks…
Overseeding without aerating?
we were overseeding because our grass is very splotchy and have never done this before. We mowed the lawn very short, spread seed and fertilizer. After reading more on how to properly overseed, I found you are to aerate before you spread seed. Will it still grow without doing this step? Will placing mulch down help? Please help!
Staff answers:
I don’t know the size of the plot you need to aerate but if its small enough to aerate with a garden fork you could still do it as long as the surface is dry so the seeds won’t stick to your feet you will not harm the seeds. Put the fork into the soil to a depth of 6 inches to make holes in the soil with a 6inch space between one.There is a hollow tined fork on the market but I have always used my garden fork to do this and its been ok. I live in Leeds yorkshire we have very good soil here and this way works very well.
Courtesy of Y!Answers