Rookie lawn caretaker here! My lawn was looking very sad - not growing, yellowing and it has bare spots. I fertilized it a couple of weeks ago and it's starting to look better. I want to use pre emergent given spring is coming but I also want to over seed. I'm confused at which to do first and how much time you need between the two? Internet searches have conflicting advice.

I am in Southern California, Zone 10a and my grass is fescue.

Please help!

NO

No pre-emergent before seeding; wait at least 3 weeks after seeding and a month and one-half later is better.

Thanks for your response. The pre emergent label says it needs to be applied before March 1st in my area so if I seed this weekend it would be 3 weeks later with pre emergent.

A little later is better than too soon.

CalPolygardener said: A little later is better than too soon.

Though I'm assuming if I apply it after the date listed many of the seeds will have already started germinating!

Better to have a few weeds to control than grass that won't grow.