Louisville’s Most Helpful “How-To Guide” for Pools and Landscaping
How to Overseed Your Kentucky Bluegrass Lawn
Overseeding revitalizes thin lawns and fills bare spots. In Louisville, the best time to overseed cool-season grasses is early fall (late August to mid-September) or early spring (March to early April).
Best Time to Overseed in Louisville
- Fall overseeding: Late August to mid-September for best results
- Spring overseeding: Mid-March to early April as backup option
- Avoid summer: Kentucky’s heat and humidity stress new seedlings
- Soil temperature: Aim for consistent 50-65°F soil temperatures
Step-by-Step Overseeding Process
Preparation (1 Week Before)
- Mow short: Cut existing grass to 1.5-2 inches
- Remove debris: Rake up clippings, leaves, and thatch
- Test soil: Check pH and nutrient levels
- Plan watering: Ensure irrigation system is working properly
Seeding Day
- Light scarification: Rake soil surface to create seed-to-soil contact
- Apply starter fertilizer: Use high-phosphorus fertilizer before seeding
- Spread seed evenly: Use drop spreader for uniform coverage (3-4 lbs per 1000 sq ft)
- Light raking: Gently rake seed into soil surface
Post-Seeding Care
- Light watering: Keep soil moist but not soaked (2-3 times daily)
- Avoid foot traffic: Stay off seeded areas for 3-4 weeks
- First mowing: Wait until new grass reaches 3+ inches
- Gradual fertilization: Apply balanced fertilizer 6-8 weeks after germination
Seed Selection for Louisville Climate
- Tall fescue: Most heat and drought tolerant for Kentucky
- Kentucky bluegrass: Classic choice, needs more water
- Perennial ryegrass: Quick establishment, good for high-traffic areas
- Seed blends: Mix varieties for better overall performance
Successful overseeding requires patience and consistent care, but results in a thicker, healthier Louisville lawn. And if that all seems like too much to worry about, you can let Steele Blades expert lawn care professionals handle it for you.