Overseeding is a great way to fill in bare and patchy areas on your lawn in Iowa with new grass. However, as with any process, you'll want to know how soon you'll see results. When you overseed your lawn, you can expect the seeds to start germinating in 7-10 days. Then, you'll see new grass growth in 2-4 weeks, with visible shoots making your lawn look fuller. However, the results will also drastically depend on how well you maintain your lawn after overseeding. For example, you'll want to water your lawn correctly, wait to mow until 2-4 weeks after overseeding, and stay off your lawn for a few weeks. By following these tips, you can help ensure that your overseeding project is successful!


After overseeding your lawn, the seeds will start germinating in 7-10 days.

When you overseed your lawn, you're adding new grass seeds to enhance and rejuvenate your existing turf. Once the seeds are planted, patience is essential as they begin the process of germination. Typically, this begins within 7-10 days after planting. During this time, the grass seeds absorb moisture from the soil and start to sprout. This critical phase involves the development of roots that anchor the seedlings into the ground, setting the stage for future growth. Ensuring the soil remains consistently moist is vital during this period, as it supports the seeds' transition into thriving grass plants. This initial germination period is a sign that your lawn is on its way to becoming fuller and more resilient.


You'll see new grass growth 2-4 weeks after overseeding your lawn.

Sprouting grass in Des Moines, IA, after overseeding.

After the initial germination, you'll soon witness the transformation of your lawn as new grass blades begin to appear. Typically, new growth becomes visible within 2-4 weeks after seeding. During this time, the delicate shoots start to emerge, gradually filling in bare or patchy areas. The exact timing and vigor of this growth depend on several factors, including the type of grass seed used, local weather conditions, and the aftercare provided. This growth phase signifies the strengthening of your lawn's overall health and appearance, rewarding your overseeding efforts with a lusher, more vibrant landscape.

The timing of grass growth after overseeding depends on several factors, like the type of grass seed used, local weather conditions, and the aftercare provided.

The results of your overseeding project will depend on how well you maintain your lawn after overseeding.

While overseeding is a great way to improve the health and appearance of your lawn, the results will depend on how well you maintain your lawn after overseeding. Here are some tips for maintaining your lawn after overseeding:

  • Watering: Proper watering is crucial for the success of your overseeding project. You'll want to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. This means watering your lawn lightly and frequently during the first few weeks before switching to deep and infrequent watering to help the new grass develop deeper roots.
  • Mowing: It's important to wait until the new grass has grown to a height of about 3 inches before mowing your lawn. This will usually take about 2-4 weeks after overseeding. Once the new grass has reached this height, you can mow your lawn as usual, but be sure to use a sharp blade and avoid cutting more than one-third of the grass height at a time.
  • Staying Off the Lawn: After overseeding your lawn, it's important to stay off the lawn as much as possible for the first few weeks. This will give the new grass seeds time to germinate and establish roots without being disturbed. If you need to walk on your lawn, try to do so as little as possible and avoid heavy foot traffic.

Call us today to schedule our overseeding service!

If you want to thicken up your lawn, our overseeding service is just what you need. This service is offered in the fall alongside core aeration to provide the grass seeds with an ideal environment to grow in. Our team will use high-quality grass seeds to overseed and promote a stronger, more resilient lawn.

We offer our overseeding service to residential and commercial property owners, as well as HOAs, in Des Moines, West Des Moines, Ankeny, and throughout the surrounding areas in Iowa. Give us a call today at (515) 289-2020 to schedule our overseeding service!