I reached out to John via email thru their website and asked about this very thing. He emailed back quickly and said that he recommended adding Blend right on top of the seed and after the top dressing to add Penetrate. Well, I live in Southern Idaho, essentially high desert, and I went with Johnathan Greens Black Beauty Ultra seed and ordered what John said to order. We seeded a 2600 Sq ft yard in the afternoon of Sept 2nd. By Sept 6th I had a few seedlings popping. I was tripping out. I expected day 7-14 to see any germination but we had it on day 4. Today is day 10 and there's nearly full coverage of my 2600 Sq ft yard of grass. It's thin still, but it's nearly completely green. Can't recommend his products enough. Aloha, Ry
Thanks for sharing your experience 💚We are delighted to hear that our products and advice are helping you grow a beautiful green lawn!! 😀If you have any pictures of the transformation we would love to see them and share them with our other viewers. If that's something you'd like to share you can send them to the same email: customerservice@johnandbobs.com Cheers!
Hello John, First of all I wanted to say thank you for providing such an informative video on seeding/over seeding . I enjoyed watching and I learned a lot. Plus, you picked up a new subscriber! Being that I’m planning on doing a moderate lawn renovation this fall, I wanted to lay out my plan for you, and hopefully receive some feedback as to how to improve it in order to achieve a successful result. Following is my plan: STEP 1: Kill off as many weeds as possible. In my case I had large, lingering patches of Wild Violet and Ground Ivy, which I treated multiple times with High Yield Triclopyr Ester. I wasn’t able to completely eradicate them, but I came close. STEP 2: I’m planning on renting a power thatcher with a bag, and clear out as much thatch build up as possible. STEP 3: Being that my lawn is very bumpy, I plan on ordering 10 yards of quality, screened topsoil and apply it with a wheelbarrow and a lawn leveling rake. STEP 4: One week following this procedure - which is my target over seeding date - I plan on renting a power aerator and a slice seeder. I will aerate the entire lawn first, and then I will follow that with the slice seeding in a cross hatch fashion. STEP 5: I plan on broadcast spreading a starter fertilizer. Being that I will be planting Johnathan Greene Black Beauty Ultra, I was going to apply their starter fertilizer over the top. It’s at this stage where my questions arise. Must I roll the newly planted seeds if they are power seeded into the ground? Do I need to cover the seed work and starter fertilizer to keep birds off the lawn? Thank you and I look forward to your reply. Matt
Your plans for re-seeding are very ambitious and very good. It's not necessary to roll the seed in the scenario you provide in Step 5. In addition to the starter fertilizer I apply our Optimize at 3-5lbs per 1,000sqft right over the seed and then about 1/8" thick wood based compost, humus or peat moss to help keep the seeds moist and warm (also helps a little as bird cover). It isn't absolutely necessary to use the seed top dress if you are really skillful at frequent and brief waterings throughout the day when the sun is out to always keep the seeds moist. After the top dress or after the Optimize (if no top dress), I apply our Penetrate Liquid Biotiller at 8oz per 1,000sqft as the last step right before the frequent brief waterings start for germination. Our Optimize and Penetrate Liquid Biotiller not only condition the soil, but also work on the seeds themselves to speed germination and increase the number of seeds that germinate. Finally, after the first mowing in 2-3 weeks I apply our Nourish Biosol Organic Fertilizer/Soil Builder at 8-10lbs per 1,000sqft.
Glad to be of use! If you're in the area, John will be giving a soil class at Regan Nursery tomorrow (10/21) 10:30-11:30 in Fremont. We'd love to see you there and answer any questions you may have!
Thank you, John, for this informative video! My first overseeding - wanted to get it done by 10/1 but life happens, so just did it today, 11/1. Just a small lot; added compost to soil after raking (bare spots are very sandy) and worked it in. Generously spread seed - it was sun & shade with several types of mix: fescue, rye and something else. Then, raked lightly over the seed and put a small amount of compost to just barely cover the seed before watering. Problem: I live in Maine and the last few days have been partly sunny with temps of low 50's. Right after I overseeded, I checked the forecast and we're supposed to have a freeze tonight, 32 degrees, then the next several days in the 50's again, sun and clouds. All this for nothing?! Sorry to be so lengthy - tell me the things I did wrong and if these seeds have a chance for survival. Thanks so much!
Yeah I have a shady lawn and it's fine all summer so I don't have issues with burnt grass. Moss removal was big chore for me this spring. New grass growing in nice now fescue and bluegrass
I feel it is a mistake to mow the lawn short when overseeding. Perhaps rake, stir things up and mow moderately high but I get significantly thicker germination and faster growing sprout rates when the soil/seed is shaded. After seeding I use water pressure plus gravity to make sure the seed hits the ground. A lot less worry about it drying out.
That's interesting, but that hasn't been my experience. The problem I've had when I keep the lawn long is that the seed sits on the blades of grass and doesn't germinate. The reason to mow it short is to maximize seed to soil contact, which in my experience, immensely improves germination rates and percentages! - John
I noticed the MP rotators in your video. I just installed mine and getting ready to seed on Thursday! I know they have a slower rate, so its going to be a learning curve to figure them out. Thx you for sharing
I usually tell our customers water time needs to be about double for MPRotators over spray heads. On the recently installed sod in the video we ended up at triple the time for the MP Rotators in the big area vs the smaller lawn area on this same job with spray heads. They do deliver water at a dramatically slower rate!
September is usually an excellent month for overseeding, although this September in my area was too hot, especially if you want to do it without top dressing! -John
Last year it was receding, I seeded in spring and beautiful lawn all spring and mid summer… now it receding again, in the same specific area… so I re sodd and seed and growing… I’m going to try again in October
Double check if there is anything different about the problem area - is it not getting as much sun and water as the rest of the lawn? Is there more foot traffic there? Focus on infusing your soil with beneficial life, with our products or a high quality compost, to make your lawn as healthy as possible. If you are still having issues after you reseed in October send pictures and we will try our best to help you figure out how to fix it! 😀You can send your photos here: customerservice@johnandbobs.com
I just decided at the last minute to do my lawn instead of waiting till spring. I'm in nyc and the soil is in the 60's, I hope I did the right thing, I'm exhausted and really don't want to do it again.
@@JohnandBobs thanks, I was outside watering and I noticed that there's seeds on top of the peat moss, how did that happen and is that a problem??? I covered the whole area very very well so I don't know why they'd be on top of the peat moss??
@@JoeBilello1969 That's normal and not a problem! If you apply the right amount of top dress, some seed will show. The only way no seed ever shows is if you use too much top dress. - J&B's
My friend, those clothes look too nice to be wearing while throwing around top dressing!! (Thank you for the educational video - God knows I need the help!).
We'll explore it as a future topic. We check future topics by using online interest metrics, but hearing what our viewers want to learn about is just as important! We'll add that one to the mix 😀
I like to add Beneficial Nematodes from Arbico Organics, Bt (Bacillus thuerengiensis) from Arbico and earth worm castings to my regimen of John&Bob's produducts depending on the specifics of the pest problem! - John
Hello John. I literally saw your video for the very first time and thank you for being informative and helpful to all of us in general. I live in Fort Worth, Texas and have a huge bare spot in my front lawn due to two large pecan trees that shade the ground. Being a novice at this, what grass seed would you recommend for my area and what products of yours to implement for grass growth in this month of October? Needing help!!! Thank you for any suggestions in advance.
Happy to have you viewing our channel! This is an excellent time to overseed your lawn. If the rest of your lawn is a warm season grass like bermuda, I recommend you overseed your entire lawn now with perennial rye (including the bare spots). If your lawn is a cool season grass (stays green in Winter) like tall fescue or bluegrass, I recommend you overseed with a good quality tall fescue seed like RTF, which you can buy online from Johnston Seed Company. After you apply your seed, apply 10lbs per 1,000 sq ft our Nourish Biosol, and then apply our Penetrate Liquid Biotiller at 8oz per 1,000sqft over the seed and Nourish Biosol. Then consider applying the optional 1/8" thick wood based mulch or compost like Amend. Then water as per our video. Thank you for your interest!
I recommend our Blend and our Penetrate Liquid Biotiller right on top of the seed because they both have ingredients that speed germination and that increase the total number of seeds that germinate. After the first mowing is the best time for fertilizer such as our Nourish Biosol or Value Rich or equal. -John M Valentino
Yes! Over-seeding this time of year is a good idea. You can aerate your lawn, we recommend using our liquid bio tiller (adds beneficial bacteria to life, naturally breaks apart soil)!
Hello John and Chip, This video was very helpful. I’m in the Northeast and just over-seeded my lawn last Tuesday. I was concerned about the proper times to water and watching this video, you helped me understand when I should be watering for best germination. One of my watering cycles is 5am but realize after watching this video, that’s not the best time to start. Waiting til sum comes up as you indicated is more beneficial. Also, I did about 6lbs of seed per 1,000 sq ft as it indicated on bag. Will I still get good germination? Thank you again for helpful video.
Glad to hear you found this video helpful! 😀 6lbs per 1,000 is light, but that shouldn't impact germination. You can still make all 6lbs germinate effectively. What kind of seed did you plant?
It applies generally. It's basically self descriptive. Warm season is Bermuda, St Augustine etc - thrives in Summer heat and goes dormant with cold, freezing temps. Cool season like fescue, perennial rye, bluegrass lawn likes cool temps and goes dormant in Summer. - John
If you are concerned about shade, Improved varieties of Tall Fescue will provide the most shade tolerant lawn. If wear resistance is what you're after, then Improved or Hybrid Bermuda is the toughest, most durable option! - John
I live up North in Canada Ontario It's mostly rock everywhere We have a new built and excavated the grounds, we are putting top soil and seed it's Oct 3rdis there anything I should know or do , once there finished with the landscape Appreciate your time. Thanks
You are fine. Timing is good for both. Keep the Kentucky Bluegrass seed moist during the daylight hours and it will germinate. In cold climates like Chicago the "Winterize" concept is fine if the products are applied early in Fall. However, if applied late in Fall or early Winter, it's not a value laden use of money. If plants and soil go into dormancy there is not much benefit to applying fertilizer (especially chemical fert), because moisture will breakdown and activate the fertilizer and the nutrients will most likely leach through the soil profile without impact at the time or in the Spring. The nutrients are gone, never to help your plants/lawn. For late Fall and Winter I recommend our Optimize, which is more of a soil conditioner and will break down slowly and kick into action in Spring. - John
One method that has worked well for me is to either mow very low or use a power rake (rental from Home Depot) and then overseed with one preferred seed blend either now or in Spring. - John
What is the ideal temperature here in California (Bay Area for me) to start the overseeing? Also how do we prevent weeds while overseeing? Any recommendations
In the Bay Area ideal is right about now, and ideal will last for about 6 weeks in your area. In my area we are 2-3 weeks from ideal. Best weed prevention is to do everything as perfectly as possible to get a real fast germination and then start mowing often as soon as the new lawn is mature enough (2 weeks after seeding?). Dense healthy lawn and frequent mowing is best/first defense against weeds. If you end up with weeds, email me photos and I'll recommend the best way to eradicate.
Hi there. I have some areas where clover has taken over. Should I rip it all off and then seed with grass seed or can I just put grass seed over clover?
You can try mowing the clover down as much as possible before seeding, like you would with grass. Clover usually thrives in lawn that is nutrient deficient so the best defense against clover would be to feed your lawn and soil generously with our Nourish-Biosol (organic fertilizer) at about 12-15lbs per 1,000 sq ft. See if you can get the lawn to outperform the clover.
I'm not sure what your specifics are, but for 2 acres you would, most likely, put in an irrigation system allowing you to water in an automated way. - John
I have had nice green grass all Summer now all of a sudden a brown patch - maybe it was the fence guys crushing grass but trying to regreen lawn any advice, Miskito y tall fescue grass laid down by original contractors
Hi John, enjoyed watching your video here...I have not planted grass before but need to plant some seed, I live in Utah and the dry weather is hard as well as the drought Utah is in with the water, we were asked to not water much and it destroyed my grass...so what type of seed should I use and what would you use to protect the grass (if that is possible) from dry weather and not watering too much - thank you so much
Tossing out a Hail Mary here. I'm in South Eastern Idaho, about 5000' elevation and my front yard is nothing but weeds while the back and side yards are just dirt. Where do I start and is it too late? Should I till up all the weeds and soil and sow seed? Is it too late here?
I would mow everything now and regularly (weeds and all) and apply our Soil Optimizer (Optimize) everywhere at 3-5lbs per 1,000sq ft. While keeping things neat and clean with regular mowing and starting to build healthy soil with our Optimize, I would plan a strategy for early Spring tilling, seeding, planting, etc. At that time I'll recommend application of more of our products like our Blend and Nourish Biosol. You can always email us at customerservice@johnandbobs.com if you have additional questions 😀
I have a question I put down seed and fertilizer about 5 days ago and now the leaves are falling from the tree. Which would be better getting the leaves up without harming the seeds cutting the grass with lawnmower up high or blower?
It is a legitimate conundrum. If the leaf fall is not too overwhelming, I dry the lawn area out enough so the mower won't leave tracks and then I use a mulching mower (most have that option) to mow over and cut up the leaves into a fine mulch. If it's not too heavy a layer it will actually help germination. Once the seeds and fertilizer have been watered in for a few days, mowers won't disturb them. The real danger is if the area is too wet, then the mower can cause damage.
In Wylie if you are seeding over a warm season grass like Bermuda, I recommend perennial rye grass. If you are seeding a cool season grass as your main predominant grass, I usually use an Improved tall fescue blend such as RTF (Rhizomatous Tall Fescue) by Barenbrug. - John
Please do a video for those of us who have to deal with armadillos and other "diggers". Do you have any advice on reducing their damage? I was told to reduce my earthworm population, but that doesn't seem to be a good answer.
Added to our video idea list! 💚 With rabbits/gophers/moles I've had some good success with rabbit/gopher/mole scram. I haven't personally had to deal with armadillos, but you could try armadillo scram! We like earthworms in our soil so I would avoid that option.
Revitalize your soil and I think you'll love the results. Apply our Blend at about 20lbs per 1,000sqft and our Penetrate Liquid Biotiller right over the top of the Blend at 8oz per 1,000sqft.
Good explanation and tips. Thanks for sharing. I’m in Michigan looking to fill some patchy areas around a big oak tree. Do you think good germination will occur even though the tree roots are monopolizing a lot of nutrients in the area?
I've found frequently more problematic than tree root competition is shade. I've had some success with fine fescues like chewings and creeping red. I have addressed root issues with light filling/leveling using topsoil and also I've done fall root pruning for problematic surface roots. Germination is difficult under Oak trees. If it's a deciduous oak, I have tried to time the seeding right after the leaves fall so that I can maximize light and sun. Seasonal realities may not allow that in Michigan. Hope that helps! 😀
Can you also use top soil over the grass seed? I was going to put hay down over the grass seed and topsoil so that way it stays moist as well as keeps my dogs from having muddy paws do you recommend the hay or not?
We typically use Amend or compost or mulch for top dressing, but hay would work excellent as well! I know some people that even use cardboard (not as attractive but still effective). Anything that will help keep the seeds moist and protect them while germinating. Thanks for watching 😃
@@okielawnguy We don't recommend or endorse using cardboard as a seed top dressing. We recommend about 1/8" thick wood based compost or mulch. Check out our Fall Lawn care Video - it's pretty good! - John ua-cam.com/video/i8mWq0sHVbw/v-deo.html
Overseeding St Augustine is not recommended because the prep required on the St Augustine to get good germination of an overseed can damage the health of the St Augustine. If you have bare spots in a St Augustine lawn, fill them with St Augustine sod or plugs.
After a ton of work seeding a new area (chicken wire protection) and overseeding, the rabbits have been munching on all my new grass and some areas are already bare from their urine. I've tried Irish Spring soap, fake owls, blood meal, activating sprinklers when I see them, etc. Nothing works and it is so saddening to see all the hard work go down the drain even after one night of munching. Any good ideas for keeping rabbits out? I live in Southern California. Thanks so much!
I just moved to new house. The weed turn bad and brown . Is it ok to overseed and water now or wait until next early spring. I live in Delaware the weather still chilling now. Next week around 60 to 65degree . Thank a bunch
Lawn seed will still germinate with slightly freezing low temps as long as you have decent high temperatures - more than 60 is good, more than 70 is better. Also, if you use a thin top dress mulch about 1/8" thick over the seed that creates a little heat like a wood based compost or even a composted manure. Also, I like to use one of our humic acid products over the seed like Optimize or Penetrate Liquid Biotiller because it increases the speed of germination and the % of seeds that germinate.
It is possible to apply too much seed. Some think I'm guilty of that because I prefer heavy seed rates. Through experience I have found better results with 20-30% heavier than traditionally recommended rates. I like to be right at the top of the range of seed rate recommendations or just slightly higher. With some seed you might create problems if you double or more than double the grower recommended rate. If you stay below a 50% increase from a grower recommended rate, you might waste money but probably not create horticultural problems.
What about crabgrass? Before re-seeding do I have to dig up all the crabgrass? I live in Virginia, what is the best time to re-seed? Is it possible to get rid of the crabgrass or will it keep coming back? 🤔
Not necessarily, it will die with the first frost. However, in order to prevent the seeds it has dropped from germinating and returning next summer, you have to apply a pre-emergent for weeds and crabgrass in early spring. Always follow up with a second application of pre-emergent about 60-90 days later.
I don't look for a certain brand for overseeding. Refer to my answer to your other comment for grass types in Fresno 😀Let us know if you have any other questions.
Rather than trying to buy the perfect mower, probably better would be to use any pretty good rotary mower and combine it with the use of a "power rake" rental from Home Depot. The combination of those two is a great way to prepare your lawn for winter seeding!
Usually, no. If you have an irrigation system in parts of the country where the low temps are moderate and winterizing your system isn't necessary, I recommend you program your system to water each valve once per week for a minute or two so that the valves open and close on a regular basis and are ready to go in the Spring. If they sit unused all Winter, they are less likely to work properly when Spring arrives. If your area is so cold you need to winterize your system, no dormancy watering is needed.
Joe - Crabgrass is easily controlled with a properly timed pre-emergent herbicide in late Winter or very early Spring in some areas. I like to use granular Dimension because it's convenient and effective. Onion requires making your lawn and soil as healthy as possible with all the techniques we discuss extensively in our videos. If you have low soil pH, applications of lime will help discourage wild onion. If you want to kill the wild onion chemically, spot spray with Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer, which is effective with reapplications. Best, John
You can seed right over the top of clay soil. Over the top of the seed apply our Blend at about 20lbs per 1,000 sq ft and about 1/8" thick layer of good compost or a wood based mulch/humus.
Is it “bad” to overseed with cool weather grass in the fall and overseed with warm weather seed in late spring? I noticed that all of my fescue died this summer but I had some Bermuda grass still green. I live in Fresno.
No, it's not bad, but many consider it "bad" because the goal of many tall fescue lawn owner's is to keep their lawn 100% fescue. They consider Bermuda a weed and work hard to keep it out negating the need for fall overseeding because the entire lawn will remain green through the winter, whereas Bermuda goes dormant and turns brown. But, you are correct, there is value to Bermuda, particularly during Summer. Most perennial rye seed is good quality and I don't look for a certain brand for overseeding. I usually buy from our wholesale distributors like Ewing, Horizon and Site one (all available to you in Fresno). For tall fescue I like Barenbrug RTF. Bermuda I usually buy from our wholesale distributors and I don't have a strong brand preference.
Great question. Yes, definitely. For overseeding purposes I would just ignore the crabgrass. Then at the appropriate time, well after the overseed has germinated one can address the crabgrass with a pre-emergent herbicide such as Dimension. - John
Thank you for the video! I live in the south and have an area in backyard that is predominately bahai and crabgrass. I would like to over seed with centipede. What ground prep and seed/1000 sq ft. do you recommend? Also, when should I apply first fertilizer? Thanks.
You need to thoroughly eradicate the bahai and crabgrass before planting Centipede grass. Once you've removed or killed the bahai and crabgrass you should till the area to about 6" and level/smooth the area very well. Centipede grass should be planted from seed in May or June. It won't germinate properly now. After applying the seed at 1lb per 2,000sqft, apply our "Blend" over the seed and either lightly rake soil over seed or apply a thin 1/8" layer of wood based mulch/compost and then keep area moist when sun is out. Thanks for reaching out. - John
8:55 Hey I have a fescue yard and somehow Bermuda have taken control over some of the yard. I won't to over seed it with fescue. What should I do? I live in the south
@@kelvinpirtle699 Eradicating Bermuda from Tall Fescue is difficult. If the infestation isn't too advanced Monterey makes a pretty good product that kills bermuda w/o killing Fescue - it's called Turflon. However, if there is a lot of bermuda about the only thing you can do is to kill the bermuda and the lawn with several applications of glyphosate and then replant the fescue lawn. Or, you can just tolerate a mixed lawn of tall fescue and bermuda. The best time to kill bermuda with any of these products is when the bermuda is actively growing. Right now before it goes into dormancy is not the best time to kill bermuda. Best, John&Bob's
What variety of lawn seed are you using? Spray our Penetrate Liquid Biotiller right over the seed, which will speed germination and increase the number of seeds that germinate. Another thing that dramatically improves germination success is a very thin layer (1/8") of a wood based compost or mulch as a top dress right over the seed. - John
Do you have any suggestions for planting wild grass in a field that is clear of weeds? Would get water mostly from winter rain & snow. Purpose is to keep weeds from growing.
First, make sure that the field is truly clear of all weeds/weed roots. Then use our products or a high quality compost/organic matter to enrich the soil. A strong soil food web will be your best bet at keeping weeds from growing. How large in the area you will be planting the wild grass?
@@JohnandBobs I have 3 acres. I want to try a 1/4 acre and test if it will work. I'm looking for low water drought tolerant in Utah Sate. Looking for strong wild grass. I have done seed and sod on several new and redone lawns. Never have tried wild grass.
@@sammartinez4244 Check out the website westernnativeseed.com They have some nice native grass blends for Utah and some with a few native flowers sprinkled in. I'd broadcast the seed and our Optimize over the seed (42lbs for 1/4 acre), then very lightly rake over the seed and Optimize to provide the seed very light cover. Then water appropriately to keep the seed moist while the sun is out for good germination.
Hi John, I am in St Louis MO, and planning on doing the Over seeding at the end of September. Should I first top dress with compost and then over seed OR the other way around? Thanks.
First prepare the area to receive the seed by making sure it's level and that the seed will come in contact with as much soil as possible, rather than sitting on top of grass blades. Then apply the seed at 10-12lbs per 1,000sqft. Then apply our products over the seed. Then apply a thin layer of compost (approx 1/8" thick). Then water to keep the seed moist while the sun is out.
It depends on your specific weather. If you seed during traditional mild fall weather, conditions are excellent for germinating seed. Late fall, winter like weather can cause seed to rot and not germinate. With sun, light moisture and high temperatures over 57 degrees, most cool season turf will germinate.
You are correct, that seed rate for straight Kentucky Bluegrass is too high. I lumped the cool season grasses together which is fine when planting them together, but not when planting Kentucky Bluegrass alone. Proper rate for Kentucky Bluegrass alone is about 5lbs per 1,000 sq ft. As part of a Blend with various tall fescue cultivars I like the 10-12lbs per 1,000 sq ft. We will also mention the error on an upcoming video or two.
Online I like to buy from Johnston seed Co. Mortar/Brick I buy seed from professional landscaper suppliers like Ewing Irrigation; Horizon Distributors; and Site One. There are branches of these all over the country that retail customers are welcome at. For overseeding I frequently use perennial rye seed from any of the above suppliers.
Fall is a good time to prune surface roots and I like to do some root pruning before mulch is applied if the surface roots are problematic. If the surface rooting is a minor problem only, I just cover them with mulch.
Obviously, you can overseed in Spring with more Zoysia seed to provide a Zoysia revitalization. However, I think you're asking if you can overseed your Zoysia now (fall) so that your lawn is green through the Winter until Zoysia re-greens in Spring. Yes you can overseed with a cool season grass. I like to use perennial rye seed at about 10lbs per 1,000 sqft, but there is lots of disagreement as to best overseed species for Zoysia. You could also use annual rye seed, which has more of a tendency to suffer from disease issues, but it goes away easier once weather warms.
Seniors on fixed income can not afford rent, mortgaged homes require maintenance which is hard. We go broke removing trees and lawn care. I lime and over seed in fall. All season WEED & FEEDS plus seed is expensive. WHO can afford aerate, thatch also yearly and YOUR products on a fixed income? PANDEMIC economy is also an issue. It shocks us to see people order 10,000 bulbs, double seed lawns not to sell but viewing pleasure only in such times (ie: Garden Answer).
I completely understand your frustrations. However, once our products go to work, you will not need to aerate or thatch, the soil life does that for you! Also, we discourage the use of weed & feed or any synthetic chemical products which can harm soil life which is exactly what we are trying to build - so you would not need to purchase that either. You would only need to aerate/thatch before first application if the area is really problematic. If you are curious to try our products I would recommended only Optimize. It is the cheapest option (about $20 for 1,000sq ft). The only potential drawback is it works slower than if all 4 of our main products (optimize, maximize, nourish-biosol, and penetrate) are used together. If time is not an issue, you would only need 2 bags (possible 1 depending on your garden) a year! Happy to talk more if you have any additional questions :)
haha some people prefer using sod when they want to create a new lawn more quickly, don't have time for seed, or have trouble getting seed to germinate.
John we overseeded our lawn this past September with Barenbrug RTF. It came up great. Would it be too early to apply a pre emergent this coming Spring 2022? We have had major problems with crab grass. Thanks for your timely videos & suggestions.
I'm not sure where you are located, but in my area and many western U.S. locations we are about a week away from excellent timing to apply pre-emergent herbicide for crab grass.
@@josephkersey7084 Yes, pre-emergent herbicide will work fine, even on relatively young grass. In Virginia I would apply it about February 1 to Feb 15, but not if there is snow on the ground. After using a pre-emergent, resume using life building fertilizers and amendments to mitigate any negative effects of chemical pre-emergent herbicides.
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I reached out to John via email thru their website and asked about this very thing. He emailed back quickly and said that he recommended adding Blend right on top of the seed and after the top dressing to add Penetrate. Well, I live in Southern Idaho, essentially high desert, and I went with Johnathan Greens Black Beauty Ultra seed and ordered what John said to order. We seeded a 2600 Sq ft yard in the afternoon of Sept 2nd. By Sept 6th I had a few seedlings popping. I was tripping out. I expected day 7-14 to see any germination but we had it on day 4. Today is day 10 and there's nearly full coverage of my 2600 Sq ft yard of grass. It's thin still, but it's nearly completely green. Can't recommend his products enough. Aloha, Ry
Thanks for sharing your experience 💚We are delighted to hear that our products and advice are helping you grow a beautiful green lawn!! 😀If you have any pictures of the transformation we would love to see them and share them with our other viewers. If that's something you'd like to share you can send them to the same email: customerservice@johnandbobs.com Cheers!
Thanks a lot sir I a dummy with lawn care I learn a little bit every day waching real professional videos like this 👍👍👍
Excellent video for a first time homeowner. 👌
🙌 It does feel good when you have a lawn that makes all your neighbors jealous, too 😛
Hello John,
First of all I wanted to say thank you for providing such an informative video on seeding/over seeding . I enjoyed watching and I learned a lot. Plus, you picked up a new subscriber!
Being that I’m planning on doing a moderate lawn renovation this fall, I wanted to lay out my plan for you, and hopefully receive some feedback as to how to improve it in order to achieve a successful result.
Following is my plan:
STEP 1: Kill off as many weeds as possible. In my case I had large, lingering patches of Wild Violet and Ground Ivy, which I treated multiple times with High Yield Triclopyr Ester. I wasn’t able to completely eradicate them, but I came close.
STEP 2: I’m planning on renting a power thatcher with a bag, and clear out as much thatch build up as possible.
STEP 3: Being that my lawn is very bumpy, I plan on ordering 10 yards of quality, screened topsoil and apply it with a wheelbarrow and a lawn leveling rake.
STEP 4: One week following this procedure - which is my target over seeding date - I plan on renting a power aerator and a slice seeder. I will aerate the entire lawn first, and then I will follow that with the slice seeding in a cross hatch fashion.
STEP 5: I plan on broadcast spreading a starter fertilizer. Being that I will be planting Johnathan Greene Black Beauty Ultra, I was going to apply their starter fertilizer over the top.
It’s at this stage where my questions arise. Must I roll the newly planted seeds if they are power seeded into the ground? Do I need to cover the seed work and starter fertilizer to keep birds off the lawn?
Thank you and I look forward to your reply.
Matt
Your plans for re-seeding are very ambitious and very good.
It's not necessary to roll the seed in the scenario you provide in Step 5. In addition to the starter fertilizer I apply our Optimize at 3-5lbs per 1,000sqft right over the seed and then about 1/8" thick wood based compost, humus or peat moss to help keep the seeds moist and warm (also helps a little as bird cover). It isn't absolutely necessary to use the seed top dress if you are really skillful at frequent and brief waterings throughout the day when the sun is out to always keep the seeds moist.
After the top dress or after the Optimize (if no top dress), I apply our Penetrate Liquid Biotiller at 8oz per 1,000sqft as the last step right before the frequent brief waterings start for germination. Our Optimize and Penetrate Liquid Biotiller not only condition the soil, but also work on the seeds themselves to speed germination and increase the number of seeds that germinate.
Finally, after the first mowing in 2-3 weeks I apply our Nourish Biosol Organic Fertilizer/Soil Builder at 8-10lbs per 1,000sqft.
Thank you for this video. I’m trying to get our weed patch turned into grass this week. I hope it’s not too late! I live in northern SF Bay Area.
Glad to be of use!
If you're in the area, John will be giving a soil class at Regan Nursery tomorrow (10/21) 10:30-11:30 in Fremont.
We'd love to see you there and answer any questions you may have!
Thank you, John, for this informative video! My first overseeding - wanted to get it done by 10/1 but life happens, so just did it today, 11/1. Just a small lot; added compost to soil after raking (bare spots are very sandy) and worked it in. Generously spread seed - it was sun & shade with several types of mix: fescue, rye and something else. Then, raked lightly over the seed and put a small amount of compost to just barely cover the seed before watering.
Problem: I live in Maine and the last few days have been partly sunny with temps of low 50's. Right after I overseeded, I checked the forecast and we're supposed to have a freeze tonight, 32 degrees, then the next several days in the 50's again, sun and clouds. All this for nothing?! Sorry to be so lengthy - tell me the things I did wrong and if these seeds have a chance for survival. Thanks so much!
Seed, reseed, mow, reseed, yup that’s about right
Yeah I have a shady lawn and it's fine all summer so I don't have issues with burnt grass. Moss removal was big chore for me this spring. New grass growing in nice now fescue and bluegrass
This guy's a genius...............wow
I feel it is a mistake to mow the lawn short when overseeding. Perhaps rake, stir things up and mow moderately high but I get significantly thicker germination and faster growing sprout rates when the soil/seed is shaded. After seeding I use water pressure plus gravity to make sure the seed hits the ground. A lot less worry about it drying out.
That's interesting, but that hasn't been my experience. The problem I've had when I keep the lawn long is that the seed sits on the blades of grass and doesn't germinate. The reason to mow it short is to maximize seed to soil contact, which in my experience, immensely improves germination rates and percentages! - John
I thought you was the guy from Revenge of the Nerds helping me with my lawn
That might have been me 😛
I noticed the MP rotators in your video. I just installed mine and getting ready to seed on Thursday! I know they have a slower rate, so its going to be a learning curve to figure them out. Thx you for sharing
I usually tell our customers water time needs to be about double for MPRotators over spray heads. On the recently installed sod in the video we ended up at triple the time for the MP Rotators in the big area vs the smaller lawn area on this same job with spray heads. They do deliver water at a dramatically slower rate!
@@JohnandBobs thank you for your response! I’m prepared now for longer directions
@@alceja3522 Happy to help! 😀
Seed in September
September is usually an excellent month for overseeding, although this September in my area was too hot, especially if you want to do it without top dressing! -John
Last year it was receding, I seeded in spring and beautiful lawn all spring and mid summer… now it receding again, in the same specific area… so I re sodd and seed and growing… I’m going to try again in October
Double check if there is anything different about the problem area - is it not getting as much sun and water as the rest of the lawn? Is there more foot traffic there? Focus on infusing your soil with beneficial life, with our products or a high quality compost, to make your lawn as healthy as possible. If you are still having issues after you reseed in October send pictures and we will try our best to help you figure out how to fix it! 😀You can send your photos here: customerservice@johnandbobs.com
@@JohnandBobs thank you. Definitely will!
I had ky blue grass and it died due to heat and sun, so I had my mower guy power seed my lawn dark fescue instead into the ground
Let us know how it works out for you! -J&B's
I just decided at the last minute to do my lawn instead of waiting till spring. I'm in nyc and the soil is in the 60's, I hope I did the right thing, I'm exhausted and really don't want to do it again.
With a 1/8" thick topdress over the seed those temperatures should work ok. Best of luck, J&B's
@@JohnandBobs thanks, I was outside watering and I noticed that there's seeds on top of the peat moss, how did that happen and is that a problem??? I covered the whole area very very well so I don't know why they'd be on top of the peat moss??
@@JoeBilello1969 That's normal and not a problem! If you apply the right amount of top dress, some seed will show. The only way no seed ever shows is if you use too much top dress. - J&B's
Nice fall green
💚🌱💚
My friend, those clothes look too nice to be wearing while throwing around top dressing!!
(Thank you for the educational video - God knows I need the help!).
Thank you! Not many call my clothes "nice".
😄
WOW 2 full minutes of good info in a 10 1/2 minute video
I try my best to make every word important and helpful for all, but sometimes I fail. - John
Thank you very much for great advice
You are very welcome! 😀💚
We are on the gulf coast and the weather is 75-80 now
What type of grass did you (or are you planning) to grow?
@@JohnandBobs rye for now
Hi John any upcoming videos on winter soil health and cover crop for him gardens coming up?
We'll explore it as a future topic. We check future topics by using online interest metrics, but hearing what our viewers want to learn about is just as important! We'll add that one to the mix 😀
This guy hates spredder tools 😂 just chucking out the seed by hand like that had be dying. great vid though!
Like the video how to get rid of bugs spiders
I like to add Beneficial Nematodes from Arbico Organics, Bt (Bacillus thuerengiensis) from Arbico and earth worm castings to my regimen of John&Bob's produducts depending on the specifics of the pest problem! - John
Hello John. I literally saw your video for the very first time and thank you for being informative and helpful to all of us in general. I live in Fort Worth, Texas and have a huge bare spot in my front lawn due to two large pecan trees that shade the ground. Being a novice at this, what grass seed would you recommend for my area and what products of yours to implement for grass growth in this month of October? Needing help!!! Thank you for any suggestions in advance.
Happy to have you viewing our channel! This is an excellent time to overseed your lawn. If the rest of your lawn is a warm season grass like bermuda, I recommend you overseed your entire lawn now with perennial rye (including the bare spots). If your lawn is a cool season grass (stays green in Winter) like tall fescue or bluegrass, I recommend you overseed with a good quality tall fescue seed like RTF, which you can buy online from Johnston Seed Company. After you apply your seed, apply 10lbs per 1,000 sq ft our Nourish Biosol, and then apply our Penetrate Liquid Biotiller at 8oz per 1,000sqft over the seed and Nourish Biosol. Then consider applying the optional 1/8" thick wood based mulch or compost like Amend. Then water as per our video. Thank you for your interest!
I like your style😎🔥
Bay leaves
Thank you for your detailed and intuitive instructions!
Our pleasure! ☺
nicely done
Ty sir
You're welcome! Thanks for watching 😀
After you seed do you recommend fertilizer right after applying the seed.
I recommend our Blend and our Penetrate Liquid Biotiller right on top of the seed because they both have ingredients that speed germination and that increase the total number of seeds that germinate. After the first mowing is the best time for fertilizer such as our Nourish Biosol or Value Rich or equal.
-John M Valentino
HELP! 😩
I have thin patchy front lawn. Soil is compacted. How do I overseed? Do I need to loosen soil?
Yes! Over-seeding this time of year is a good idea. You can aerate your lawn, we recommend using our liquid bio tiller (adds beneficial bacteria to life, naturally breaks apart soil)!
The plant is Buxus sempervirens
Hello John and Chip,
This video was very helpful. I’m in the Northeast and just over-seeded my lawn last Tuesday.
I was concerned about the proper times to water and watching this video, you helped me understand when I should be watering for best germination. One of my watering cycles is 5am but realize after watching this video, that’s not the best time to start. Waiting til sum comes up as you indicated is more beneficial. Also, I did about 6lbs of seed per 1,000 sq ft as it indicated on bag. Will I still get good germination?
Thank you again for helpful video.
Glad to hear you found this video helpful! 😀 6lbs per 1,000 is light, but that shouldn't impact germination. You can still make all 6lbs germinate effectively. What kind of seed did you plant?
@@JohnandBobs It’s GCI turf grass seed
TTTF/KBG
@@thurstonr9929 I don't know what all the letters mean. Maybe you are referring to the recommended RTF (rhizomatous tall fescue) seed?
@@JohnandBobs Sorry, tall fescue and Kentucky blue
@@thurstonr9929 6lbs is a little light, but it will still germinate. I like to apply bluegrass and fescue seed at about 10lbs per 1,000.
Great video
Thanks for watching! :)
When over seeding in which order should I put down products. 1st grass seed, 2nd starter fertilizer, 3rd lime?
What is your definition for warm season or cool season grass seeds? Is that definition relative to your area or does it apply generally?
There’s different species of grasses listed as those! So cool season examples are fescue and perennial rye and a warm season example is Bermuda
It applies generally. It's basically self descriptive. Warm season is Bermuda, St Augustine etc - thrives in Summer heat and goes dormant with cold, freezing temps. Cool season like fescue, perennial rye, bluegrass lawn likes cool temps and goes dormant in Summer. - John
Hi John, what grass do you recommend for under a trampoline? Thank you
If you are concerned about shade, Improved varieties of Tall Fescue will provide the most shade tolerant lawn. If wear resistance is what you're after, then Improved or Hybrid Bermuda is the toughest, most durable option! - John
Thanks!
Great video John👍
Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it 😀
I live up North in Canada Ontario
It's mostly rock everywhere
We have a new built and excavated the grounds, we are putting top soil and seed it's Oct 3rdis there anything I should know or do , once there finished with the landscape
Appreciate your time. Thanks
When to seed in FL hurricane destroyed lawn
Hello I am in Chicago and Today 9/23/23 I used Kentucky Bluegrass and Scott’s winterizer at the same time…will the grass grow or did I do too much?
You are fine. Timing is good for both. Keep the Kentucky Bluegrass seed moist during the daylight hours and it will germinate. In cold climates like Chicago the "Winterize" concept is fine if the products are applied early in Fall. However, if applied late in Fall or early Winter, it's not a value laden use of money. If plants and soil go into dormancy there is not much benefit to applying fertilizer (especially chemical fert), because moisture will breakdown and activate the fertilizer and the nutrients will most likely leach through the soil profile without impact at the time or in the Spring. The nutrients are gone, never to help your plants/lawn. For late Fall and Winter I recommend our Optimize, which is more of a soil conditioner and will break down slowly and kick into action in Spring. - John
Seems like I have different patches of grass all over. How can I get a consistent grass?
One method that has worked well for me is to either mow very low or use a power rake (rental from Home Depot) and then overseed with one preferred seed blend either now or in Spring. - John
Can you still see in November?
You can still seed in areas with high temps about 60 or more, but act fast. If you don't act fast, wait until Spring. -John
What is the ideal temperature here in California (Bay Area for me) to start the overseeing?
Also how do we prevent weeds while overseeing? Any recommendations
In the Bay Area ideal is right about now, and ideal will last for about 6 weeks in your area. In my area we are 2-3 weeks from ideal. Best weed prevention is to do everything as perfectly as possible to get a real fast germination and then start mowing often as soon as the new lawn is mature enough (2 weeks after seeding?). Dense healthy lawn and frequent mowing is best/first defense against weeds. If you end up with weeds, email me photos and I'll recommend the best way to eradicate.
Bay tree
Hi there. I have some areas where clover has taken over. Should I rip it all off and then seed with grass seed or can I just put grass seed over clover?
You can try mowing the clover down as much as possible before seeding, like you would with grass. Clover usually thrives in lawn that is nutrient deficient so the best defense against clover would be to feed your lawn and soil generously with our Nourish-Biosol (organic fertilizer) at about 12-15lbs per 1,000 sq ft. See if you can get the lawn to outperform the clover.
So you all sound good, but I am working on 2 acres? How could I ever water???
I'm not sure what your specifics are, but for 2 acres you would, most likely, put in an irrigation system allowing you to water in an automated way.
- John
I have had nice green grass all
Summer now all of a sudden a brown patch - maybe it was the fence guys crushing grass but trying to regreen lawn any advice, Miskito y tall fescue grass laid down by original contractors
Mostly tall fescue in West Virginia I’m thinking about using Pangea glr seeds - im a military guy and have been attempting to solve this on my own
Brown Patch is possible, but like you I'm thinking timing is not typical. If you want, you can send me a photo! customerservice@johnandbobs.com
- John
Email photos sent thanks
Hi John, enjoyed watching your video here...I have not planted grass before but need to plant some seed, I live in Utah and the dry weather is hard as well as the drought Utah is in with the water, we were asked to not water much and it destroyed my grass...so what type of seed should I use and what would you use to protect the grass (if that is possible) from dry weather and not watering too much - thank you so much
Tossing out a Hail Mary here. I'm in South Eastern Idaho, about 5000' elevation and my front yard is nothing but weeds while the back and side yards are just dirt. Where do I start and is it too late? Should I till up all the weeds and soil and sow seed? Is it too late here?
I would mow everything now and regularly (weeds and all) and apply our Soil Optimizer (Optimize) everywhere at 3-5lbs per 1,000sq ft. While keeping things neat and clean with regular mowing and starting to build healthy soil with our Optimize, I would plan a strategy for early Spring tilling, seeding, planting, etc. At that time I'll recommend application of more of our products like our Blend and Nourish Biosol. You can always email us at customerservice@johnandbobs.com if you have additional questions 😀
I have a question I put down seed and fertilizer about 5 days ago and now the leaves are falling from the tree. Which would be better getting the leaves up without harming the seeds cutting the grass with lawnmower up high or blower?
It is a legitimate conundrum. If the leaf fall is not too overwhelming, I dry the lawn area out enough so the mower won't leave tracks and then I use a mulching mower (most have that option) to mow over and cut up the leaves into a fine mulch. If it's not too heavy a layer it will actually help germination. Once the seeds and fertilizer have been watered in for a few days, mowers won't disturb them. The real danger is if the area is too wet, then the mower can cause damage.
What type of grass grown in fall at Wylie Texas.
In Wylie if you are seeding over a warm season grass like Bermuda, I recommend perennial rye grass. If you are seeding a cool season grass as your main predominant grass, I usually use an Improved tall fescue blend such as RTF (Rhizomatous Tall Fescue) by Barenbrug. - John
Southern California - why can't you re-seed after September??
That's the opposite of what I hear...
Please explain.
So RTF and Bermuda (Bluemuda) would be perfect? Thanks!
Please do a video for those of us who have to deal with armadillos and other "diggers". Do you have any advice on reducing their damage? I was told to reduce my earthworm population, but that doesn't seem to be a good answer.
Added to our video idea list! 💚 With rabbits/gophers/moles I've had some good success with rabbit/gopher/mole scram. I haven't personally had to deal with armadillos, but you could try armadillo scram! We like earthworms in our soil so I would avoid that option.
I have a new yard but it’s sandy and it won’t grow tired everything what should I do it took like month to grow
Revitalize your soil and I think you'll love the results. Apply our Blend at about 20lbs per 1,000sqft and our Penetrate Liquid Biotiller right over the top of the Blend at 8oz per 1,000sqft.
Good explanation and tips. Thanks for sharing. I’m in Michigan looking to fill some patchy areas around a big oak tree. Do you think good germination will occur even though the tree roots are monopolizing a lot of nutrients in the area?
I've found frequently more problematic than tree root competition is shade. I've had some success with fine fescues like chewings and creeping red. I have addressed root issues with light filling/leveling using topsoil and also I've done fall root pruning for problematic surface roots. Germination is difficult under Oak trees. If it's a deciduous oak, I have tried to time the seeding right after the leaves fall so that I can maximize light and sun. Seasonal realities may not allow that in Michigan. Hope that helps! 😀
Can you also use top soil over the grass seed? I was going to put hay down over the grass seed and topsoil so that way it stays moist as well as keeps my dogs from having muddy paws do you recommend the hay or not?
We typically use Amend or compost or mulch for top dressing, but hay would work excellent as well! I know some people that even use cardboard (not as attractive but still effective). Anything that will help keep the seeds moist and protect them while germinating. Thanks for watching 😃
@@JohnandBobs how does the seed get sunlight if it’s covered by cardboard?
Maybe it’s just me, but 10-12 lbs per 1k seems a bit over-kill.
@@okielawnguy We don't recommend or endorse using cardboard as a seed top dressing. We recommend about 1/8" thick wood based compost or mulch. Check out our Fall Lawn care Video - it's pretty good! - John
ua-cam.com/video/i8mWq0sHVbw/v-deo.html
It is bay leaf.
Mini Gardenia?
Can I mix others seeds grass with my st. Augustine grass???
Overseeding St Augustine is not recommended because the prep required on the St Augustine to get good germination of an overseed can damage the health of the St Augustine. If you have bare spots in a St Augustine lawn, fill them with St Augustine sod or plugs.
After a ton of work seeding a new area (chicken wire protection) and overseeding, the rabbits have been munching on all my new grass and some areas are already bare from their urine. I've tried Irish Spring soap, fake owls, blood meal, activating sprinklers when I see them, etc. Nothing works and it is so saddening to see all the hard work go down the drain even after one night of munching. Any good ideas for keeping rabbits out? I live in Southern California. Thanks so much!
I've had good success with Rabbit Scram available online. Hopefully it will work well for you!
@@JohnandBobs Thanks so much for the reply. I've seen mixed reviews on Rabbit Scram but it's worth a try!
@@wushufanatic Happy to help! Let us know how it works out for you - fingers crossed! :)
Shoot them
@@johnschmid2316 Probably not a good idea considering I'm in the city with kids behind and beside my house.
I there!!! I suscribed!!!
Woo! 🙌🏼 welcome to the j&b fam 💚
I just moved to new house. The weed turn bad and brown . Is it ok to overseed and water now or wait until next early spring. I live in Delaware the weather still chilling now. Next week around 60 to 65degree . Thank a bunch
Lawn seed will still germinate with slightly freezing low temps as long as you have decent high temperatures - more than 60 is good, more than 70 is better. Also, if you use a thin top dress mulch about 1/8" thick over the seed that creates a little heat like a wood based compost or even a composted manure. Also, I like to use one of our humic acid products over the seed like Optimize or Penetrate Liquid Biotiller because it increases the speed of germination and the % of seeds that germinate.
Thank for your response. The weather at night turn really cold now. Can i just do the fertilizer for fall now and wait until early spring to overseed?
@@phatphan805 Happy to help! I would recommend applying our Optimize now to help improve soil health and then overseed in early spring.
I have an acre that needs grass on it here in central Oklahoma, it has nothing right now beside weeds. What would you recommend I do?
I live in Arizona, when is the best time to plant tall fescue grass (Scott brand)?. Thank you
My lawn was overtaken by nutsedge. Is it possible to overseed now to overtake the nutsedge or do I start over?
Is it possible to overseed your lawn?(meaning put down too much seed)
It is possible to apply too much seed. Some think I'm guilty of that because I prefer heavy seed rates. Through experience I have found better results with 20-30% heavier than traditionally recommended rates. I like to be right at the top of the range of seed rate recommendations or just slightly higher. With some seed you might create problems if you double or more than double the grower recommended rate. If you stay below a 50% increase from a grower recommended rate, you might waste money but probably not create horticultural problems.
I want to over seed my yard in Michigan right now what is a good seed to use
What about crabgrass? Before re-seeding do I have to dig up all the crabgrass? I live in Virginia, what is the best time to re-seed?
Is it possible to get rid of the crabgrass or will it keep coming back? 🤔
Not necessarily, it will die with the first frost. However, in order to prevent the seeds it has dropped from germinating and returning next summer, you have to apply a pre-emergent for weeds and crabgrass in early spring. Always follow up with a second application of pre-emergent about 60-90 days later.
What seed do you recommend? Meaning, what brand.
I don't look for a certain brand for overseeding. Refer to my answer to your other comment for grass types in Fresno 😀Let us know if you have any other questions.
Is it bay leaf plant/bush?
Can you recommend a brand of mower for scalping the lawn for winter seeding in Arizona? My understanding is that all mowers do not cut low enough.
Rather than trying to buy the perfect mower, probably better would be to use any pretty good rotary mower and combine it with the use of a "power rake" rental from Home Depot. The combination of those two is a great way to prepare your lawn for winter seeding!
Do you have to water your grass when it goes dormant ???
Usually, no. If you have an irrigation system in parts of the country where the low temps are moderate and winterizing your system isn't necessary, I recommend you program your system to water each valve once per week for a minute or two so that the valves open and close on a regular basis and are ready to go in the Spring. If they sit unused all Winter, they are less likely to work properly when Spring arrives. If your area is so cold you need to winterize your system, no dormancy watering is needed.
I am in gardening zone 7a, can I still overseed grass seed in the Fall? TY
How do you stop onion and crab grass
Joe - Crabgrass is easily controlled with a properly timed pre-emergent herbicide in late Winter or very early Spring in some areas. I like to use granular Dimension because it's convenient and effective. Onion requires making your lawn and soil as healthy as possible with all the techniques we discuss extensively in our videos. If you have low soil pH, applications of lime will help discourage wild onion. If you want to kill the wild onion chemically, spot spray with Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer, which is effective with reapplications. Best, John
Thank you so much
Where I live we have a high amount of clay in the soil. Can I seed this or do I need to add soil/sand mixture first?
You can seed right over the top of clay soil. Over the top of the seed apply our Blend at about 20lbs per 1,000 sq ft and about 1/8" thick layer of good compost or a wood based mulch/humus.
John & Bob's Smart Soil Solutions your the man, thanks!
Is it “bad” to overseed with cool weather grass in the fall and overseed with warm weather seed in late spring? I noticed that all of my fescue died this summer but I had some Bermuda grass still green. I live in Fresno.
No, it's not bad, but many consider it "bad" because the goal of many tall fescue lawn owner's is to keep their lawn 100% fescue. They consider Bermuda a weed and work hard to keep it out negating the need for fall overseeding because the entire lawn will remain green through the winter, whereas Bermuda goes dormant and turns brown. But, you are correct, there is value to Bermuda, particularly during Summer. Most perennial rye seed is good quality and I don't look for a certain brand for overseeding. I usually buy from our wholesale distributors like Ewing, Horizon and Site one (all available to you in Fresno). For tall fescue I like Barenbrug RTF. Bermuda I usually buy from our wholesale distributors and I don't have a strong brand preference.
Can you seed in fall if you have crab grass problems?
Great question. Yes, definitely. For overseeding purposes I would just ignore the crabgrass. Then at the appropriate time, well after the overseed has germinated one can address the crabgrass with a pre-emergent herbicide such as Dimension. - John
@@JohnandBobs perfect thanks 😊
Thank you for the video! I live in the south and have an area in backyard that is predominately bahai and crabgrass. I would like to over seed with centipede. What ground prep and seed/1000 sq ft. do you recommend? Also, when should I apply first fertilizer? Thanks.
You need to thoroughly eradicate the bahai and crabgrass before planting Centipede grass. Once you've removed or killed the bahai and crabgrass you should till the area to about 6" and level/smooth the area very well. Centipede grass should be planted from seed in May or June. It won't germinate properly now. After applying the seed at 1lb per 2,000sqft, apply our "Blend" over the seed and either lightly rake soil over seed or apply a thin 1/8" layer of wood based mulch/compost and then keep area moist when sun is out. Thanks for reaching out. - John
Thank you for that!@@JohnandBobs
8:55 Hey I have a fescue yard and somehow Bermuda have taken control over some of the yard. I won't to over seed it with fescue. What should I do? I live in the south
@@kelvinpirtle699 Eradicating Bermuda from Tall Fescue is difficult. If the infestation isn't too advanced Monterey makes a pretty good product that kills bermuda w/o killing Fescue - it's called Turflon. However, if there is a lot of bermuda about the only thing you can do is to kill the bermuda and the lawn with several applications of glyphosate and then replant the fescue lawn. Or, you can just tolerate a mixed lawn of tall fescue and bermuda. The best time to kill bermuda with any of these products is when the bermuda is actively growing. Right now before it goes into dormancy is not the best time to kill bermuda.
Best, John&Bob's
hi!
i keep adding bags n i barely have a thin lawn, i see seeds on top, i water 2x a day n nothin????
What variety of lawn seed are you using? Spray our Penetrate Liquid Biotiller right over the seed, which will speed germination and increase the number of seeds that germinate. Another thing that dramatically improves germination success is a very thin layer (1/8") of a wood based compost or mulch as a top dress right over the seed. - John
tried 4 different kinds...ill try n find your stuff. ty@@JohnandBobs
Do you have any suggestions for planting wild grass in a field that is clear of weeds? Would get water mostly from winter rain & snow. Purpose is to keep weeds from growing.
First, make sure that the field is truly clear of all weeds/weed roots. Then use our products or a high quality compost/organic matter to enrich the soil. A strong soil food web will be your best bet at keeping weeds from growing. How large in the area you will be planting the wild grass?
@@JohnandBobs I have 3 acres. I want to try a 1/4 acre and test if it will work. I'm looking for low water drought tolerant in Utah Sate. Looking for strong wild grass. I have done seed and sod on several new and redone lawns. Never have tried wild grass.
@@sammartinez4244 Check out the website westernnativeseed.com They have some nice native grass blends for Utah and some with a few native flowers sprinkled in. I'd broadcast the seed and our Optimize over the seed (42lbs for 1/4 acre), then very lightly rake over the seed and Optimize to provide the seed very light cover. Then water appropriately to keep the seed moist while the sun is out for good germination.
Hi John, I am in St Louis MO, and planning on doing the Over seeding at the end of September. Should I first top dress with compost and then over seed OR the other way around? Thanks.
First prepare the area to receive the seed by making sure it's level and that the seed will come in contact with as much soil as possible, rather than sitting on top of grass blades. Then apply the seed at 10-12lbs per 1,000sqft. Then apply our products over the seed. Then apply a thin layer of compost (approx 1/8" thick). Then water to keep the seed moist while the sun is out.
The seed wont die from the cold and wet?
It depends on your specific weather. If you seed during traditional mild fall weather, conditions are excellent for germinating seed. Late fall, winter like weather can cause seed to rot and not germinate. With sun, light moisture and high temperatures over 57 degrees, most cool season turf will germinate.
Please don't follow seeding rate for Kentucky Blue seed
You are correct, that seed rate for straight Kentucky Bluegrass is too high. I lumped the cool season grasses together which is fine when planting them together, but not when planting Kentucky Bluegrass alone. Proper rate for Kentucky Bluegrass alone is about 5lbs per 1,000 sq ft. As part of a Blend with various tall fescue cultivars I like the 10-12lbs per 1,000 sq ft. We will also mention the error on an upcoming video or two.
Not expensive? My bags are $20/ lbs for quality seed without bluegrass or cool season mixes.
We were stating that seed is cheaper in comparison to using sod, which typically ends up being a lot more expensive.
I'm new to lawn maintenance and planning to reseed my lawn. I'm in Bay area. Any recommendation of lawn seeds like brand and where to get it?
Online I like to buy from Johnston seed Co. Mortar/Brick I buy seed from professional landscaper suppliers like Ewing Irrigation; Horizon Distributors; and Site One. There are branches of these all over the country that retail customers are welcome at. For overseeding I frequently use perennial rye seed from any of the above suppliers.
@@JohnandBobs thanks for the information...
@@saipadu123 Happy to help!
Holly
I'm planning on laying sod over surface tree roots. Any suggestions ?
Fall is a good time to prune surface roots and I like to do some root pruning before mulch is applied if the surface roots are problematic. If the surface rooting is a minor problem only, I just cover them with mulch.
8” of cover? Composted material over the seed?? I think he said that twice.
Eighth
1/8" not 8" ! ☺
Can you overseed Zoyzia? I'm in Memphis TN?
Obviously, you can overseed in Spring with more Zoysia seed to provide a Zoysia revitalization. However, I think you're asking if you can overseed your Zoysia now (fall) so that your lawn is green through the Winter until Zoysia re-greens in Spring. Yes you can overseed with a cool season grass. I like to use perennial rye seed at about 10lbs per 1,000 sqft, but there is lots of disagreement as to best overseed species for Zoysia. You could also use annual rye seed, which has more of a tendency to suffer from disease issues, but it goes away easier once weather warms.
Seniors on fixed income can not afford rent, mortgaged homes require maintenance which is hard.
We go broke removing trees and lawn care. I lime and over seed in fall. All season WEED & FEEDS plus seed is expensive. WHO can afford aerate, thatch also yearly and YOUR products on a fixed income? PANDEMIC economy is also an issue. It shocks us to see people order 10,000 bulbs, double seed lawns not to sell but viewing pleasure only in such times (ie: Garden Answer).
I completely understand your frustrations. However, once our products go to work, you will not need to aerate or thatch, the soil life does that for you! Also, we discourage the use of weed & feed or any synthetic chemical products which can harm soil life which is exactly what we are trying to build - so you would not need to purchase that either. You would only need to aerate/thatch before first application if the area is really problematic.
If you are curious to try our products I would recommended only Optimize. It is the cheapest option (about $20 for 1,000sq ft). The only potential drawback is it works slower than if all 4 of our main products (optimize, maximize, nourish-biosol, and penetrate) are used together. If time is not an issue, you would only need 2 bags (possible 1 depending on your garden) a year!
Happy to talk more if you have any additional questions :)
Not to be mean but this guy said a bunch of nothing for the diyer
Not that mean, but quite inaccurate! 😗
Sod??? Ha we burn down till up and sees we’re normal people
haha some people prefer using sod when they want to create a new lawn more quickly, don't have time for seed, or have trouble getting seed to germinate.
John we overseeded our lawn this past September with Barenbrug RTF. It came up great.
Would it be too early to apply a pre emergent this coming Spring 2022? We have had major problems with crab grass. Thanks for your timely videos & suggestions.
I'm not sure where you are located, but in my area and many western U.S. locations we are about a week away from excellent timing to apply pre-emergent herbicide for crab grass.
@@JohnandBobs We're in Virginia John. Would our new grass be able to handle a preemergent because it went through only one winter?
@@josephkersey7084 Yes, pre-emergent herbicide will work fine, even on relatively young grass. In Virginia I would apply it about February 1 to Feb 15, but not if there is snow on the ground. After using a pre-emergent, resume using life building fertilizers and amendments to mitigate any negative effects of chemical pre-emergent herbicides.