Aerate The Soil
If you will be overseeding your Bermuda lawn, aeration of the soil is highly recommended. (reseeding is optional)
NOTE: When overseeding a Bermuda lawn, to avoid density, color, height and texture contrasts, it is highly recommended you use the same variety of Bermuda seed that was originally planted. If this is not possible, consult with your local independent nurseryman as to which varieties may be best suitable as a substitute. If your lawn was originally installed using sodgrass, chances are you have a hybrid-type Bermuda known as "419". Hybrid Bermuda should not be overseeded with seed-type Bermuda.
Aeration, also called core cultivation or aerifying, is an important part of any lawn restoration program. It allows grass roots to deeply penetrate the soil, helps fertilizer and organic matter get to roots of grass, allows oxygen to reach the roots, and makes it easier for water to soak into the soil. Aerate at least once a year in Fall. Avoid aerating during dry Summer months because you may damage an already stressed lawn.
Aeration also allows seeds to drop in shallow holes, where plugs have been removed, reducing the possibility of washing and facilitating stronger root growth of seedlings. Aeration also allows fertilizer or organic matter to get to the roots and water to soak better into the soil.
To aerate the soil, use a "core-type" power aerator that will remove and disperse soil plugs (2 to 3" in length) randomly atop the ground. Core-type power aerators can be rented from your local tool rental store. Make at least two, or as many passes as desired over the area to be reseeded.
Aerators penetrate your lawn best when the soil has been moistened by rain or watering; so, unless it rains, water your lawn the day before aerating. When aerating, make several passes in several directions over every square foot of lawn.
Prepare the Surface and Overseed (If Necessary)
In the South, the best time to overseed a Bermuda lawn is between late Spring to mid-Summer, when soil temperatures are abobe 68 degrees F. The earlier the better as this gives the young grass plants more time to establish strong roots, and store food needed for winter.
When sowing grass seed, begin by spreading seed around the perimeter of the lawn area. Then divide your seed and apply half making a pass over the lawn in one direction, and the other half making a pass over the pawn in the opposite direction. This technique helps to insure even coverage.
Apply a thin layer of wheat straw or hay to overseeded areas - particularly bare spots. This mulch coating will help retain moisture necessary for seed germination, and help to hold the seed in place if there is heavy rainfall.
Aside from seeding, you may also introduce new grass plants by inserting plugs or patches of sod.
Care for Young Grass Seedlings and Restored Lawn
Your work to this point will have been in vain if you don't care for the lawn as needed to maintain vigorous growth and a healthy appearance.
If you overseeded, the most critical need is to apply water once or twice a day, depending on the temperature and assuming no rain. If the soil is allowed to dry out, the seeds won't germinate. To maximize the germination rate, soak your lawn on the same day you sow the seeds. On the next day, assuming no rain, lightly sprinkle the lawn for about 10 to 15 minutes morning and afternoon. Be sure you have moistened the soil to a depth of one inch. Keep the overseeded lawn moist until the young grass plants are 2 inches tall. When the grass is 2 inches tall, resume normal watering patterns.
