Q: My tall fescue lawn has lots of dead areas from disease and drought over the summer, and I want to fill them in. Is seeding or sodding better, and when is the best time to do this?

A: Tall fescue lawns in the St. Louis area generally take a beating over the summer, so the need to fill in bare areas is common.

When it comes to seeding or sodding, both methods of establishing grass have advantages and disadvantages. Seeding is typically less expensive, but it takes longer to fill in and mature, and weeds can be more problematic. Sodding gives you immediately mature turf and tends to have fewer issues with weeds during establishment, but it is more expensive than seed per square foot.

Both methods require adequate soil preparation, regular watering and little to no foot traffic for seve

See Full Page