Dear Mike,

Thank you very much for the inquiry. There is always hope. The first thing to check is you seed mix. Does it meet your environment? If it is dry and shady vs. wet and shady you will want to use fine fescues vs rough bluegrass or supine bluegrass. If the lawn is open and sunny, you can choose between Kentucky bluegrass/perennial ryegrass mix or tall fescue. You may even have to have a couple of grasses depending on your microclimates.

Second, when you are overseeding, are you applying the right amount of fertilizer and water? You will need to apply starter fertilizer at time of seeding and then again 30 and 60 days later. Also, you will need to water the seeds at least daily, keeping the soil surface (where the seeds are) moist. Mulching correctly can alleviate some of the watering as it is designed to keep the surface wetter for a longer period. These are key elements in establishment.

Finally, when you mow and how often will help your lawn fill in quicker. Begin to mow as soon as possible (2-3 weeks is not unreasonable in most cases) and know that the frequent mowing will contribute to tillering and filling in of the lawn (combined with the fertility and watering of course.).

Again thanks for the inquiry.

Respectfully,

Trey Rogers
The Yard Doctor