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Aerate and overseed the lawn
Trigger
Fall (cool-season) or late spring (warm-season)
Who does it
DIY or Pro
Est. time
2-3 hrs
Est. cost
$0-150 (rental/pro)
Difficulty
●●○○○
Step by step
Mow the lawn shorter than usual before aerating.
Rent a core aerator (or hire a lawn service) and pass over the whole yard.
Leave the soil plugs on the lawn to break down naturally.
Spread grass seed matched to your existing lawn type, focusing on thin/bare patches.
Water lightly and consistently for 2-3 weeks until seedlings establish.
Questions to ask your pro
- Do you use a core aerator that pulls plugs, not a spike aerator?
- What seed variety do you recommend for my soil type, climate, and sun/shade conditions?
- How many passes will you make with the aerator, and in what pattern?
- What starter fertilizer will you apply, and is it included in the price?
- What watering schedule should I follow in the weeks after overseeding?
- How long before the new grass is established enough to mow?
- What germination rate should I expect, and what is your policy if results are poor?
Video guide
Search: 'how to aerate and overseed a lawn'
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Bill of materials