It’s August and that means overseeding season is approaching and preparation begins now. Here’s what you need to know to have a successful and prosperous season.
How to save on seed
Seed costs vary each year based on the amount of seed carryover from last year, as well as the acres planted and yields from seed farms. Freight costs have also risen this year.
There are a few ways you can save on the seed you purchase at Ewing.
Ewing stores are offering early order discounts for purchases placed by Aug. 31, 2019.
Another way to reduce seed prices is with bulk orders of bags or pallets. If you can estimate the amount of seed you'll need early enough, then placing one bulk order can help you save on the price per bag.
Talk to your local Ewing for more details on seed order options and savings.
Timing and preparing for overseeding
Once you’ve got your seed, you’ll likely need to store it for a few weeks while waiting for outdoor temperatures to cool enough for sowing in September, October or November.
Make sure your storage facility is clean and protected from mice or rats before you bring in seed, and make sure the seed stays dry.
Forecasters are predicting a warmer than average fall across much of the U.S., so you may need to pay attention to the weather to time your seed applications later than usual.
Above average temperatures are forecasted for September and October 2019.
In Arizona, California, Nevada and Texas, an application of Prodiamine can be helpful for Poa Annua control six to eight weeks prior to overseeding established bermudagrass with perennial ryegrass, and four to eight weeks after. As always, read the label for use guidelines.
Hit the ground running
When the weather is right, you’ll want to get all that seed applied quickly. You can ensure your applications go smoothly by having all the right tools and supplies:
- A spring rake will be helpful to remove thatch and loosen top soil, and increase seed contact with the soil.
- A hand crank spreader for small lawns and a push or broadcast spreader for larger areas will help spread seed evenly.
- Next, apply a seed topper or seed cover mulch to condition the soil, prevent seed movement on sloped areas, protect seed from birds and prevent seed from drying out during germination if dry or windy weather occurs.
- Use a starter fertilizer to give those seeds a strong start. Some options include: Healthy Grow with Holganix, Holganix 2-10-20, The Andersons 18-24-12 All Mineral, Ferti 5-20-10, Best 6-24-24 XB or Howard Johnson 5-10-31 with 10% Iron. Consult with your local Ewing for fertilizer options for your region.
Finally, your customers who don’t want any overseeding may be interested in an application of turf colorant to keep their dormant grass a vibrant green color during the winter months. Be sure to let them know it's an option!
For all these products and more for fall overseeding, shop online or visit your local Ewing store for recommendations.
