Here in the greater Atlanta area, most fescue lawns appear weak and stressed after enduring a summer of Georgia heat. As we enter September and fall begins, we enter fescue’s peak growing season and it’s important to do your part in caring for and replenishing your lawn to get it back in the healthiest state. The key to survival for Atlanta fescue lawns is fall aeration and overseeding, but how can you be sure you will see the best results? The most important step to seeding your lawn is following proper after-care in limited traffic, adequate watering, and mowing at the right time.
1. Proper Watering
There are a handful of factors to consider when following proper after-care for your fescue lawn. The most important part of caring for your newly seeded lawn is watering. Without water, the seedlings will not develop or grow which can result in your money wasted. It is recommended that the soil maintains moisture to a depth of ¼ to ½ inch for the first two weeks until seedlings develop. The best time to water is in the early morning or late afternoon to allow more time in sunlight and reduces the chance of disease activity. Once seedlings develop, watering should be increased to ½ to 1 inch as it is critical that new seed does not dehydrate. Just like us, plants need water to thrive and survive. Lack of watering after an overseeding can de detrimental to the desired result of a lush new lawn.
2. Limited Traffic
In addition to watering, you want to make sure you monitor traffic on the lawn after fall overseeding. There should zero to minimal traffic on your lawn after seeding in order to prevent hindering new growth. It is best to limit traffic for about 3 weeks or until seedlings start to develop. Additionally, you want to make sure all water and sunlight can reach the roots so be sure to keep the lawn clear of leaves. While we all want to enjoy the cooler, fall weather, it’s important to keep our kids and pets away from these seeded areas while it’s in early growth stages.
3. Mowing at the Right Time
Another common question after seeding is how long to wait before you mow the new lawn. It is extremely crucial not to mow newly seeded areas until at least 21 days or the grass has reached at least 3 inches in height. Developing turf shoots produce food and nutrients for the new plant so mowing too early can greatly hinder the overall health and growth of your new lawn.
Finally, a newly seeded lawn that has received adequate water and minimal traffic will need food! It’s important for newly developing grass to receive proper fertilization at the right times. At All Turf Lawn Care, we offer lawn care programs to the greater Atlanta area tailored to everything your fescue lawn needs, including weed control, fertilization, fungicides, and overseeding. Call us today to schedule your fall seeding and get a free estimate on your lawn treatment program.
