Reseeding the lawn in autumn: the step-by-step guide

Semina del prato in autunno

Autumn is the most favourable time of year to reseed or overseed your lawn. The soil retains the summer heat, while cool nights and rainfall maintain moisture and reduce weed growth. A lawn sown now will be thick and well-established by spring.

When to sow

In most of Italy, the ideal window is from mid-September to late October. As a general rule, seeds germinate well as long as the soil temperature remains above 10–12°C: if overnight lows consistently drop close to freezing, it is best to wait until March or April.

Step 1 – Prepare the soil

  • Cut the existing grass shorter than usual (3–4 cm).
  • Remove thatch, moss and leaves with a rake: the seeds must make contact with the soil.
  • Lightly loosen the top few centimetres in bare patches and level any holes.

Step 2 – Choose the right seed

Always follow the sowing rate indicated on the packaging: sowing too thickly will not result in a better lawn, but in weak seedlings competing for light and water.

Step 3 – Starter fertiliser

Young seedlings need phosphorus above all else to develop their roots. Spread a starter fertiliser such as Concime Semina - Evergreen 2 kg or Start Life 10-15-10 - Bottos 2 kg before or at the same time as sowing the seeds.

Step 4 – Cover and compact

Lightly rake the seeds into the soil to a depth of a few millimetres, then compact the soil (you can also walk gently over it): seed-to-soil contact is key to good germination.

Step 5 – Water lightly and frequently

Until the seedlings emerge, the soil surface must never dry out: it is better to water briefly 2–3 times a day with a fine spray than once with a heavy watering, which could displace the seeds. An irrigator such as Compact 160 - Claber or an irrigation bar will distribute the water evenly.

Errors to avoid

  • Sowing on thatch or moss without aerating.
  • Using herbicides in the weeks before or after sowing.
  • Cutting too soon: wait until the new grass reaches 8–10 cm and make the first cut high.

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to grow?

In favourable conditions, the first blades appear within 7–15 days; ryegrass and some mixtures may take longer.

Can I sow over the existing lawn?

Yes, this is overseeding: cut the grass short, aerate thoroughly and use a regeneration mixture such as Rinnovaprato.

Would you like everything in a single solution? The Kit Starter Semina - Agrofata contains everything you need to get started.

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Write to us in the chat or call us on +39 331 432 0978: we will help you choose the right product for your garden. Delivery within 24–48 hours or free in-store collection.

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