Interseeding vs. Overseeding

If you are looking to repair an old or thin lawn, it can be difficult to know where to begin. When it comes to seeding a lawn for repair or maintenance, interseeding and overseeding are the two most popular methods. Understanding the difference between interseeding vs. overseeding will ensure that you are making an educated decision for your specific lawn needs. That is why our team of professional landscapers have compiled some information on each method and what they are commonly used for. For assistance keeping your lawn and garden in pristine condition, reach out to the team at Jovak Landscape & Design. We will work with you to provide the perfect solution for your unique needs.

What is Interseeding?

Interseeding is the process of planting the same species of grass into the current lawn. This method is ideal for creating a thicker appearance and for recovering grass lost during summer. If your lawn currently has large bare patches or only sporadic patches of grass, interseeding is great for restoring everything to a healthy level.

What is Overseeding?

Overseeding is the process of planting seeds directly into the existing soil without disturbing it. This method is often used to introduce another species of grass to the current lawn to help resist weeds, disease, foot traffic, and seasonal changes. As a lawn ages, the grass starts to thin and allow room for weeds. Overseeding keeps a lawn younger and “competitive”, resulting in thicker and healthier grass.

Which Method is Best?

The current state of your lawn will drastically affect which method is right for your needs. If your lawn currently has many barren patches, interseeding is a great way to bring it up to a healthy standard. If your lawn is currently in a healthy state, overseeding is often used by professionals to ensure a resilient and long-lasting lawn. For example, overseeding is used for golf courses and other areas that need to have a thick lawn all year round.

Regardless of the method chosen, it is best to seed your lawn in late summer or early fall (August or September). In addition to timing, it important to keep the top inch of the soil moist for the first 2-3 weeks. This will ensure that the grass seeds have enough time to set and start to grow before the weather becomes too cold.

For more information on lawn seeding and maintenance, reach out to the experts at Jovak Landscape & Design through our online contact form or at 604-866-7186. Our experts are ready to help you bring your dream landscape vision to life.