How soon do I fertilize when I over seed my lawn?

Answer 1

If you're using a starter fertilizer (lower nitrogen, and higher phosphorus rates), you can fertilize a week or two after the seeds germinate. Use a whirly-spreader (hand held) or a broadcast spreader (push) so that you don't have to walk on the new lawn areas.

If you're using a full strength fertilizer for established lawns, about 6-8 weeks after germination. You could very well burn the new seedlings with all that nitrogen.

If you're using a fertilizer with crab-grass preventer or weed killer. Wait at least 8 weeks after germination... the herbicide product in that mix will certainly harm the new lawn area.

Starter fertilizers aren't bad on an existing lawn, I would just substitute that product, in place of your normal "First Step".

I hope that this helps
Good luck-

Answer 2

you should do both at the same time since the fertilizer will help the seeds to germinate faster with plenty of water learned that the hard way

Answer 3

I do it at the same time or up to a week latter. It mainly depends on when I get around to it. Make sure you water it in though. I really don't think it will help your germination but it will help it grow faster as soon as it does germ.

Answer 4

Just before it rains or you will burn the seedlings as they start to come up!