Whether your lawn is in need of a total reset or if you are reclaiming forgotten spaces in the landscape, grass seeding is a cost-effective DIY project. Compared to professionally-installed sod, seeding your lawn is something most everyone can do.

Clear out any existing vegetation. Brown patches may still have ground cover plants in the soil. Non-selective weed killer will eliminate any weeds, but it will also kill grass. Be careful when applying any herbicide. Apply it only to the selected area and wear protective gear. Two weeks should be sufficient time to allow the existing vegetation to be eliminated.

• Rake the soil. Add soil to rocky or sparse areas.
• Apply any fertilizer you may want to add
• Spread the seed. Handheld or push-behind seed spreaders are good for larger spaces. Divide the amount of seed needed for your lawn in half. Spread the seed in two rounds. This will help with even distribution. Lightly rake the whole area.
• Mist with water.
• Add a light coating of soil (Not hay, which may contain weeds).
• Roll the area with a roller. A soil distributor and a roller can be rented from a local home store.

• Watering is important step. Be sure to provide adequate water in the next few weeks. A light misting a few times a day, based on the sun exposure, should be enough. Heavy watering may wash away the topsoil and seed.
• Protect it from birds. If the topsoil layer is insufficient in keeping the seeds covered, a landscape netting or other covering can be used.

The amount of direct sun and traffic your grass receives throughout the year will influence the health of your lawn.  If you are debating what type of grass you have or what type you need, ask an expert at your local nursery or home store. According to Annapolis, MD grass experts Central Sod Farms, regional areas have different common species. New England and the Northeast regions have a lot of Kentucky Bluegrass.