Overseeding is one of the best ways to thicken a thin or patchy lawn in Grand Junction, Fruita, and Palisade. After you spread seed, the real work is keeping the soil moist and giving those new seedlings time to grow strong enough to handle traffic and mowing. If you mow too soon, you can pull out young grass or damage the roots before they are ready. If you wait too long, the old grass gets tall and shades out the new growth. Getting the timing right makes a big difference.

Mesa Turf Masters helps homeowners across the Grand Valley with overseeding and year round lawn care so your turf stays full and green.

When to Make the First Cut After Overseeding

Most lawns in Western Colorado are ready for a first mow about three to four weeks after overseeding, as long as the new grass has been watered consistently. You are not following a fixed calendar. You are watching the grass. A good rule of thumb: wait until the new blades are at least three to four inches tall and the lawn does not feel loose or spongy when you walk on it. That usually means the roots have started to grip the soil.

  • Check that new grass is firmly rooted: Tug gently on a few blades. If they come out easily, wait another week and keep watering.
  • Mow when the new grass is about one third taller than your target height: For example, if you normally keep grass at two inches, wait until it is around three inches, then mow back down.
  • Use a sharp blade: A dull mower tears grass and can pull seedlings out. Sharp cuts heal faster and stress the lawn less.
  • Set the mower high for the first few passes: Raise the deck so you only remove the top third of the blade. Lower it gradually over the next few mows to your normal height.
  • Avoid mowing when the soil is wet: Wet soil compacts easily and the mower can leave ruts or pull up young roots. Mow when the surface is dry.

Sticking to these steps helps your new grass survive the first few mows and blend in with the rest of the lawn. Pair overseeding with a solid fertilization and weed control plan so the turf you are building stays healthy all season.

Need help with overseeding or mowing timing? Call (970) 434-5440 or request a free quote to talk through your lawn care schedule with our team.