Splitting the seed into two crossing passes creates more uniform coverage and makes it easier to finish with the planned amount.
Why I did it this way
I used two 50-pound bags - 100 pounds total - of a transition-blend turf-type tall fescue seed. The seed cost $237.66 delivered. The spreader setting was 7 for both seed passes.
What I used
- Turf-type tall-fescue blend
- Broadcast spreader
- Scale or equal containers
- Core-aerated seedbed
- Irrigation or hose timers
What I did
- I waited until the soil was walkable. After heavy overnight rain, seed firm areas first and avoid standing water or deep footprints.
- I divided the seed equally. Reserve half for each direction.
- I set my spreader to 7 for both passes. This was specific to the spreader and seed used and is not a universal setting.
- I made the first pass. Walk straight overlapping lanes and close the gate on turns.
- I crossed the second pass at 90 degrees. Apply the second half perpendicular to the first.
- I gave the thinnest zones deliberate coverage. Typical overseeding guidance was 4 to 6 pounds per 1,000 square feet and 8 to 10 on bare soil; do not accidentally double the entire lawn.
- I kept the seed shallow and moist. Target roughly one eighth to one quarter inch depth and light watering two to four times daily as weather requires.
What I learned
- Using the seed setting for fertilizer
- Walking saturated soil into ruts
- Burying seed deeply
- Letting the surface dry during germination
- Applying preemergent near seeding
My result
I spread all 100 pounds in two perpendicular passes on September 20. The crossing pattern gave me a clear way to distribute the planned amount evenly.
Know your limits
Avoid seeding into active erosion or drainage failure. Follow seed-label rates and local watering restrictions.