Early fall is the “spring-time” for establishing a new lawn or renovating a tired weed infested turf. In the fall most of the weed infestation, particularly from annual pest grasses like crab and goose-grasses, is over.
You have another week (until October 20th) to wind up this chore. To completely seed a sunny area, choose a quality blend (two or more varieties) of tall fescue at a seeding rate of 6-8 lbs. per 1000 square feet of lawn area. Over a partially shaded area seed in red or chewings fescue @ 2-3 lbs. per 1000 square feet.
Use less than half the seeding rate over patch or renovated areas.
October is a traditionally dry month (appears to be the same this year as well here in the Southern Appalachian region (USDA zones 6 and 7). Days and soil temps are still warm and the new lawn seeding will germinate rapidly. Irrigate lightly, (termed “spritzing”), the newly seeded areas 1-2 times daily. Spread one bale of hay per 1000 square feet over the newly seeded lawn area to reduce daily irrigation and distract birds from dining off your future lawn.
In early November feed with a winterizing 2 -1 -1 ratio of lawn fertilizer, following package directions. Mowing height can be lowered to 1 1/2 inches and a mulching attachment to the mower blade will grind up fallen leaves and debris into mulch.
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