Overseeding in Kentucky: Ditch Kentucky 31 for Modern Fescues

Kentucky 31 Is a Pasture Grass, Not a Lawn Grass

KY-31 tall fescue is coarse, clumpy, and prone to brown patch. It dominates 40+ million acres—for grazing, not lawns. Modern turf-type tall fescues (Bonsai series, Defiance XRE, Rebel, Falcon) are finer, denser, darker, and disease-resistant.

Spring Overseeding Plan (3rd Week of March)

1. Mow low (1.5–2 inches) to open canopy.
2. Core aerate if thatch >½ inch (but don't overdo—it disrupts soil).
3. Apply high-phosphorus starter fertilizer (organic: rock phosphate, bone meal).
4. Overseed with a premium turf-type tall fescue blend at overseeding rate.
5. Water lightly 2–3x daily until germination; then transition to deep weekly.

Full Sun? Consider Kentucky Bluegrass or Perennial Ryegrass

But for shade, traffic, and low maintenance, improved tall fescue wins. Buy from Seedland or Lawnseed.com for quality genetics.