Understanding the Right Winter Overseeding Time for Phoenix, AZ Lawns
There are many reasons why overseeding Phoenix, AZ lawns is beneficial. Overseeded grass can better endure insects, drought, disease, heavy traffic, and shady conditions. If done right, overseeding can also help the grass look thicker, healthier, and greener. But when’s the proper winter overseeding time for Phoenix lawns?
In this article, we’ll specify the right time to do so and walk you through the process.
When should Phoenix lawns be overseeded?
Typically, planting should start during the first two weeks in October, when the nighttime temperatures are around 60 degrees. Overseeding should be completed by November. It shouldn’t be too early since Bermuda grass can grow side-by-side with rye seeds, resulting in dormant grass mixed with ryegrass. On the other hand, planting after November 1st can lead to a longer germination process, especially when night temperatures drop to about 40-50 degrees.
How does overseeding work?
Here’s what overseeding consists of:
Scalping
The first step is to deal with the lawn and decrease the thatch that grew over the summer. This process is referred to as de-thatching and scalping, which includes removing thatch and leaf accumulation to ensure the seed reaches the soil.
Seeding
Find the highest-quality grass possible to increase the chances of a better lawn. To that end, pick a grass type best suited for Arizona’s climate. For example, perennial ryegrass usually does the trick.
Fertilizing
Before turning on the water, fertilize with a starter fertilizer. Also, go through the instructions on the bag and determine what the numbers mean to make the right choice.
Mulching
Well-composted mulch helps retain the heat and moisture required to germinate perennial ryegrass. The procedure is optional in most cases, but it’s necessary for the following situations:
If the irrigation system is inadequate
If there’s no timer capable of watering four or five times a day
If the temperatures drop too quickly
Watering
Water the lawn four to five times a day for seven to 10 days while the seed is germinating. Do this in short cycles that leave no dry spots or puddles. After the seed has grown to about one inch, watering can be reduced to two to three times a day.
After 10 to 14 days, it’s OK to water the grass once a day. Finally, once the winter lawn has been established, water it every other day.
Mowing
Start mowing on the tenth or fourteenth day following the germination. But don’t eliminate over 30% of the leaves at once to avoid pulling out new seedlings.
Nutrition
Feed the ryegrass once a month, according to the fertilizer guide. Get a fertilizer with iron for ideal results.
Make your lawn stand out
Don’t let your lawn look great and healthy only during the summer. Start overseeding at the right time and follow the steps above to ensure a gorgeous lawn throughout the winter.
Springs of Life Irrigation is a Phoenix-area irrigation company specializing in professional sprinkler and drip irrigation and landscape lighting installation and repair. Call 623-299-2996.