When your lawn starts looking thin, patchy, or tired, there’s no need to start over from scratch. Planting new grass seed directly into an existing lawn, also known as overseeding, is a proven way to bring density, vibrancy, and resilience back to your turf.
But here’s the catch: the success of overseeding depends on when, how, and with what kind of care you plant your lawn grass seed. Timing, prep, and follow-through are everything. So if you’re wondering how to plant grass seed on an existing lawn the right way, this guide will walk you through it step-by-step.
Grass naturally thins out over time due to foot traffic, weather extremes, and pests like chinch bugs. Overseeding isn’t just about fixing bald patches; it’s also a smart preventative strategy that:
At Yard Dawgs, we know the climate challenges homeowners face in Western Canada. That’s why we offer Slit-Seeding & Lawn Seeding Services designed to ensure every seed gets the soil contact and protection it needs to thrive.
Let’s break down the process so you can start seeing visible results in a matter of weeks.
Late summer to early fall is the ideal time to overseed in Alberta and Saskatchewan. The soil is still warm enough for quick germination, while cooler air temperatures reduce stress on tender new grass. Spring can also work, just be prepared to stay on top of watering as summer heat arrives.
Select a high-quality lawn grass seed blend suited for your region and sunlight exposure. Cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass, fescues, and ryegrass perform well in Calgary and surrounding areas. Avoid cheap mixes with fillers or weed seed, your lawn deserves better.
This is where many people go wrong. You need to create the ideal environment for seed-to-soil contact.
Spread the grass seed across your lawn using a broadcast or drop spreader. Aim for even distribution, no heavy clumps or bare gaps.
Pro Tip: Apply half the seed in one direction, then go over it again at a right angle. This cross-pattern ensures consistent coverage.
Support your new grass with the nutrients it needs to establish strong roots.
Watering is critical for germination and early growth.
Avoid overwatering, which can rot seeds or invite fungal issues.
Unlike seeding a bare area, overseeding doesn’t typically require a mulch cover. However, if you want added protection, a thin layer of compost can help retain moisture and improve soil quality. Just don’t smother the seed, you still need good airflow and light penetration.
Grass seed germination time varies:
Be patient and keep watering on schedule. Once the new grass reaches about 3 inches tall, mow it gently with sharp blades set high (around 3 inches). Continue mowing regularly, but don’t scalp it, tall grass shades out weeds and promotes deep roots.
Overseeding is a great start, but keeping your lawn thick, green, and weed-free all season long takes year-round attention. That’s where Yard Dawgs comes in. We offer personalized care plans that include:
Learning how to plant grass seed on an existing lawn gives you the power to transform your yard without starting from scratch. But if you’d rather skip the mess and guarantee success, our local pros are ready to help. With Yard Dawgs, your dream lawn is just a few treatments away. Let’s grow something great together!