reseeds

Reseeds, or reseeding, is the process of spreading seeds to establish vegetation in an area where plants have declined, or to introduce new species. The term can refer to the seed material used for reseeding as well as the overall practice in agriculture, turf management, restoration, and land rehabilitation.

In lawns and turf, reseeding is used to repair thinning patches, improve density, and enhance appearance. In pastures and rangelands, reseeding helps restore forage production, introduce improved or native species, and increase resilience to drought and pests. In ecological restoration and erosion control, reseeding supports revegetation and habitat restoration after disturbance.

Techniques include broadcast sowing, drill or press sowing, hydroseeding, and overseeding. Preparation involves soil testing, aeration, dethatching or weed control, and sometimes scarification. Seed selection prioritizes species suited to site conditions, germination rate, seed viability, and any coatings or inoculants that may be used.

Timing depends on the species and region: cool-season grasses and many forbs are often seeded in fall or spring, while warm-season species are planted after the last frost or when soils have warmed. Adequate soil moisture is critical during germination, with irrigation or rainfall maintained until seedlings are established. In restoration projects, timing aligns with native phenology and local restoration goals.

Benefits of reseeding include improved ground cover, reduced erosion, enhanced habitat, and increased forage or aesthetic value. Limitations include establishment failures due to drought or weed competition, soil compaction, high seed costs, and the need for ongoing maintenance such as mowing or grazing management after establishment.