Why Is Overseeding Important for MI Homes?

Michigan homeowners know that maintaining a healthy lawn isn’t always easy, especially during Winter, where the cold temperatures, snow and frost can cause thinning and damage to their lawns. 

Luckily, there’s an effective way to keep your lawn full, vibrant and healthy year after year. Overseeding is an effective way to combat the effects of harsh winter weather. This process thickens your turf, fills in bare patches and improves your lawn’s overall health.

While overseeding may seem like you’re going overboard, overseeding goes beyond surface-level repair. Actually, overseeding improves the destruction that we can’t see. By overseeding, fresh grass can help your lawn recover faster from seasonal stress, improve its durability and stay lush longer, even as it battles Michigan's toughest conditions.

Benefits of Overseeding

Thickens existing grass: By overseeding, you can thicken the existing grass in your lawn. A denser lawn doesn’t just look healthier – it is healthier. Thicker grass helps create a natural barrier that pushes out weeds, reduces erosion and improves your lawn’s overall health. Plus, bare or thinning patches that expose soil are easily filled. 

Weed prevention: A thick lawn is a great way to prevent weeds from developing in your yard. By filling in sparse areas with new grass seed, you reduce open space for weeds to take root. The grass can outcompete weeds for natural resources including sunlight, water and nutrients. Additionally, the denser your lawn’s turf is, the harder it will be for unwanted weeds to germinate, stopping the problem before it even starts. 

Improves overall health: A major benefit to overseeding adds to the improved overall health of your garden. A thicker, fuller lawn means it is less likely to suffer from stress, which can be induced by a multitude of things including:

• Heavy foot traffic 
• Drought 
• Pests and disease
• Extreme weather conditions

What Types of Seeds Should Be Used During the Process?

In Michigan, overseeding typically involves a combination of Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass and fescue. These grasses are chosen because they can thrive in Michigan’s cool climate. To get the best results, it is recommended that you use seeds that are resistant to insects and disease. This will not only promote growth but these types of seeds will keep your lawn looking green well into the colder months. 

When Should Overseeding Be Done?

Overseeding should be done in early Fall. This is the ideal time for Michigan homeowners since the ground is warm and the air remains cool, making it ideal for seeds to germinate. If you can’t overseed in the Fall, another option is springtime when the temperatures begin to rise. However, it is advised that you make sure the soil temperatures are between 50 and 60 degrees for successful germination. 

Can I Overseed My Lawn?

While you can overseed your lawn on your own, it is always recommended that you have a professional conduct the process. Lawncare technicians have specialized equipment, access to better quality seeds and the expertise needed to assess your lawn’s unique needs, especially when dealing with patchy areas, compacted soil or previous damage. 

Plus, with a professional, you’re more likely to yield better (and more consistent) results than if you did it yourself. A lawn care expert may determine that more is needed to improve your lawn’s health. Aeration, for example, tends to go hand-in-hand with seeding. 

Aeration is done to loosen the soil by making small holes. If a lawn care technician determines that you need aeration, they can perform this service for your lawn, saving you time and money in the long run. With a trained expert handling the job, you’re more likely to see long-lasting improvements across your lawn.

Looking to Improve Your Lawn? Visionary Fertilization Has You Covered!

At Visionary Fertilization, we offer professional overseeding services to help you achieve a fuller, healthier lawn. Whether your grass is thinning due to wear, drought or seasonal changes, overseeding is a proven way to revitalize your yard and boost its curb appeal. Based in Shelby Township, we proudly serve Macomb County and the surrounding communities. 

Our team is here to answer any questions and guide you through the overseeding process to ensure long-lasting results. For more information, give us a call at 586-701-6873. To explore our full lineup of services including general lawn care or outdoor pest control, click the link here.