Overseeding is one of the keys to a lush, green lawn. But too much seed can cause more problems than it solves.
When over-seeding, grass has the potential to smother existing tufts and create thick, weak grass prone to disease. Excess fertilizer may also contribute to unhealthy growth or bare patches in areas that don’t receive enough sunlight for growth.
Think strategically when planting seeds by keeping in mind how much sun your lawn receives and which types of grass prefer those conditions. Overseeding with the wrong type of grass can result in aggressive weeds taking over the yard and eliminating beneficial species.
You should always test your soil’s pH level before planting seeds, as well as use only quality, weed-free soil when filling in bare patches or introducing new grasses. Too much phosphorus and nitrogen can also ignite an algae outbreak due to nutrient runoff from conventional fertilizers, potentially contaminating nearby bodies of water.
Too much seed can be counter-productive, but there are still legitimate uses for slightly higher quantities, such as seeding a freshly tilled lawn or shrubs that contain a lot of shade. Be mindful of how many pests you’re introducing with the extra seed, such as bugs or mites that could destroy other sections of your yard if left unchecked.
It’s better to take small steps towards achieving an optimal amount of grass than to get carried away with sowing too many overzealous seeds.