Overseeding and Resodding: How to Fill in Bare Spots and Repair Damaged Lawns

Overseeding and resodding are two effective methods for filling in bare spots and repairing damaged lawns. A well-manicured lawn can increase a property’s value by up to 10% [1], making it essential for homeowners to maintain their outdoor spaces. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of overseeding and resodding, provide step-by-step guides on how to perform these tasks, and discuss the importance of maintenance and aftercare.

Benefits of Overseeding

Overseeding is a simple and cost-effective way to fill in bare spots and thicken existing grass. This method involves spreading new seed over the affected area and allowing it to germinate and grow. The benefits of overseeding include:

Increased density: Overseeding can help thicken existing grass, making it more resistant to disease and pests.
Improved appearance: A fuller, healthier lawn can enhance the overall appearance of a property.
Cost-effectiveness: Overseeding is generally less expensive than resodding or installing new turf.

According to a survey by the National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP), 75% of homeowners consider a well-maintained lawn to be an essential feature when buying or selling a property [2]. By overseeding bare spots and damaged areas, homeowners can improve their lawn’s appearance and increase its value.

Benefits of Resodding

Resodding involves removing existing turf and replacing it with new sod. This method is often used for larger areas of damage or where the soil is severely compacted. The benefits of resodding include:

Instant results: New sod provides an instant, lush lawn.
Improved drainage: Removing existing turf and soil can help improve drainage and reduce waterlogging.
Reduced maintenance: New sod requires less maintenance than overseeding, as it is already established.

A study by the University of California found that resodding can increase a property’s value by up to 15% [3]. However, resodding can be more expensive than overseeding, with costs ranging from $0.50 to $1.50 per square foot [4].

Step-by-Step Guide to Overseeding

To overseed bare spots and damaged areas, follow these steps:

Prepare the soil: Remove any debris, weeds, or dead grass from the affected area.
Choose the right seed: Select a grass species that is suitable for your climate and soil type.
Apply the seed: Spread the seed evenly over the affected area, using a spreader or by hand.
Rake the seed in: Gently rake the seed into the soil to ensure good contact.
Water the seed: Keep the soil consistently moist during the germination period (usually 7-14 days).

Seed Type	Germination Period	Recommended Sowing Rate
Kentucky Bluegrass	7-10 days	1-2 pounds per 1000 square feet
Perennial Ryegrass	5-7 days	2-3 pounds per 1000 square feet
Tall Fescue	10-14 days	3-4 pounds per 1000 square feet

Step-by-Step Guide to Resodding

To resod damaged areas, follow these steps:

Remove existing turf: Cut the existing turf into small sections and remove it from the affected area.
Prepare the soil: Till the soil to a depth of 8-10 inches to loosen and aerate it.
Lay the new sod: Place the new sod over the prepared soil, ensuring good contact between the sod and soil.
Water the sod: Keep the soil consistently moist during the establishment period (usually 2-4 weeks).
Maintain the sod: Fertilize and mow the new sod regularly to promote healthy growth.

Sod Type	Establishment Period	Recommended Watering Schedule
Kentucky Bluegrass	2-3 weeks	Water every other day for first week, then reduce to once a week
Perennial Ryegrass	1-2 weeks	Water daily for first week, then reduce to every other day
Tall Fescue	3-4 weeks	Water every other day for first two weeks, then reduce to once a week

Maintenance and Aftercare

To ensure the success of overseeding or resodding, regular maintenance is essential. This includes:

Fertilization: Apply fertilizer regularly to promote healthy growth.
Mowing: Maintain a consistent mowing schedule to prevent overgrowth.
Watering: Water the lawn deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth.

According to a survey by the Lawn Care Association, 60% of homeowners reported that regular maintenance was essential for maintaining a healthy lawn [5]. By following these tips and performing regular maintenance, homeowners can enjoy a lush, healthy lawn that enhances their property’s value and appearance.

Conclusion

Overseeding and resodding are two effective methods for filling in bare spots and repairing damaged lawns. By understanding the benefits of each method and following step-by-step guides, homeowners can improve their lawn’s appearance and increase its value. Regular maintenance is essential for ensuring the success of overseeding or resodding, and by prioritizing fertilization, mowing, and watering, homeowners can enjoy a healthy, lush lawn for years to come.

References

[1] National Association of Realtors. (2020). 2020 Remodeling Impact Report. [2] National Association of Landscape Professionals. (2019). 2019 Lawn Care Survey. [3] University of California. (2018). The Economic Benefits of Landscaping. [4] HomeAdvisor. (2020). How Much Does Sod Cost? [5] Lawn Care Association. (2019). 2019 Consumer Survey.

Chart Data

Method	Cost per Square Foot	Establishment Period
Overseeding	$0.10-$0.50	7-14 days
Resodding	$0.50-$1.50	2-4 weeks

Note: The cost and establishment period may vary depending on the location, climate, and type of grass.

Statistics

75% of homeowners consider a well-maintained lawn to be an essential feature when buying or selling a property [2].
60% of homeowners reported that regular maintenance was essential for maintaining a healthy lawn [5].
Resodding can increase a property’s value by up to 15% [3].