Benefits of fall seeding
The true benefit of fall seeding is simple—fewer weeds come springtime.
Overseeding and patching bare spots in the fall helps deter weeds and other seasonal lawn problems by growing healthier grass that can outcompete weeds. As you prepare your lawn for the changing fall season, remember: The best defense against spring weeds is a thick, dense lawn this fall.
Fall is the best time to seed
The weather is just right for seeding
The temperatures in the soil and air are both right for seed. Seeding right now allows the grass seed to germinate and roots to establish before temperatures and soil cool off in late fall.
Repairs summer lawn damage
Fall seeding is your lawn's best restoration tool against the wear and tear of summer activities. By overseeding and patching up those bare spots, you're setting the stage for a thicker, healthier lawn come spring—no weeds invited!
Less competition from weeds
Unlike spring, not as many weeds are germinating in fall. This means less competition for space, sunlight, nutrients, and water for the grass seed you spread.
Reduces impacts from bare soil
Elevate your yard's eco-friendly impact by establishing grass over bare soil. This reduces soil erosion and acts as a natural filter for sediment and nutrients, preventing them from entering drainage and water systems.
When to seed grass in the fall
This will depend on where you live and your grass type.
Cool-season grasses should be seeded before early October when daily average temps are between 55–75 degrees Fahrenheit.
Warm-season grasses should be seeded before September when daily average temps are between 70–90 degrees Fahrenheit. Tip: not all warm-season grasses can be seeded!
Regional Tips for Lawn Seeding
- Cooler, northern climates: Fall is the perfect time for overseeding and repairing bare patches in lawns.
- Warmer, southern climates: Fall can be excellent for patching small bare spots, especially in areas recently treated for weeds. Save larger seeding projects for next summer!
How to plant grass seed in the fall
When you're ready to seed, we've got the complete guide on how to plant grass seeds effectively.
Select the right seed
Pick the right grass seed. Make sure it's well suited to your soil, climate, sun availability, and lawn use needs.
Sunday Tip:
Aren't sure what the best grass seed for your lawn is? Our new Seed Finder tool helps you choose the best grass seed for your specific lawn needs. Check it out live—and free!—now.
Apply seed correctly
Spread seeds evenly across your lawn based on recommended rates for each type of Sunday seed product:
- For overseeding: 5 pounds of Sunday's premium seed will cover 2,500 square feet of lawn area
- For patching: Apply Sunday's Bare Repair products on bare areas at a rate of 1 cup per 1 square foot. For thinning areas, spread over your lawn at a rate of 1 pound per 15 square feet
Water daily
Water daily to keep the seeds and soil moist until the seeds germinate. The timeline for watering will depend on your grass type:
- Fescues: 6-12 days
- Perennial rye: 3-7 days
- Kentucky bluegrass: up to 21 days
- Bermudagrass: 7–21 days
Sunday Tip:
Trouble seeding grass? Resolve soil issues first—poor lawn care practices, inadequate light, drainage issues, and soil quality all hinder grass seed growth.
What if I miss fall seeding?
The window for fall seeding typically closes in early September for warm-season lawns and early October for cool-season lawns.
If you're in a northern climate and miss it, consider frost seeding. It's an alternative that still gives cool-season grasses a spring head start while limiting weeds.
Sunday's picks for fall seeding
Pet Lawn Seed & Weed Kit
- Strengthens existing grass
- Cultivates a pet-friendly lawn with urine-resistant seed
- Eliminates unwanted weeds
- Evenly distributes seeds for optimal coverage and growth
Fescue Grass Patch Kit
- Complete grass patch repair
- Enhances growth and greening
- Climate-resilient grass seed
- Zero pesticides
- Made for cool-season lawns
Cited sources
Cold climate impact on runoff management. Minnesota Pollution Control Agency.
Consider dormant seeding your lawn this fall. University of Minnesota Extension.
Fall Into Your Lawn: Establishing Cool-season Turfgrasses. Virginia Tech Cooperative Extension.
Lawn Care: The Easiest Steps to an Attractive Environmental Asset. Cornell University Extension.
Lawn Management Through the Seasons. Penn State University Extension.
