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Most Ohio lawns are cool-season grasses: Kentucky bluegrass, tall fescue and perennial ryegrass. They grow best in spring and fall, which makes late August through September the best time to aerate and overseed.
Why fall is best in Ohio
- Soil is still warm, so seed germinates quickly.
- Cooler air means less stress on new grass.
- Fewer weeds compete for space than in spring.
- New grass has two growing seasons to establish before summer heat.
Step by step
- Mow short (about 2 inches) and remove the clippings.
- Core aerate when the soil is moist but not soggy. Make two passes in compacted areas.
- Overseed right away so seed falls into the aeration holes.
- Apply a starter fertilizer.
- Water lightly every day for two to three weeks, until the new grass is about 2 inches tall.
What it costs
Lawn care companies typically charge $100–$250 to aerate an average yard, or more when overseeding is included. Use the free Ohio lawn care cost calculator to price your lawn.
Common mistakes
- Aerating in midsummer heat or on frozen ground
- Applying pre-emergent weed control right before overseeding (it stops the seed too)
- Letting new seed dry out
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