As autumn arrives, homeowners will notice that warm-season turfgrasses are beginning to turn tan and brown as they enter their natural period of dormancy. For those who prefer a vibrant green lawn through the cooler months, they can take action by overseeding with ryegrass, which thrives in low temperatures.

Choosing and planting ryegrass

When selecting seed, Bert Hammett, a horticulture agent with the LSU AgCenter in East Baton Rouge Parish, recommends choosing perennial ryegrass over annual ryegrass.

"It’s going to give a deeper, darker green foliage, and it tends to fill in a little bit better," Hammett said.

Homeowners should also ensure they buy perennial ryegrass intended for lawns, not for livestock forage production.

Overseeding steps

Mow short: Before spreading the ryegrass

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