I dont dethach unless there is high thatch buildup (my current lawn doesnt have much thatch buildup at all). But now that I think about it I dont think I would dethach, since you are going to aerate or slit or some other such method.
Getting the seed in firm contact with the soil is key to germinating. And it has to be kept moist during this time. So for me in the Northeast, starting too late in the Fall doesnt give it enough time to get going before Winter (and early/late summer is too big a risk of not enough water/rain, unless sprinklers are used).
I have had good luck with the slitters to churn the soil up a bit and give a place for the seed to wash into the soil. I dont roll it though (would, and think its a good idea, but just dont have a roller). The slitter (ran in crossing diagonal pattern) cuts small rows for the seed to get down into and then the rain washes the loose soil over it.
Seed on the surface is a complete waste. Any spots that you cant get into the soil I like mulching over with peat moss, it holds the moisture in well.
I wouldnt use fertilizer. And definitely do not use a weed and feed, since these suppress germination.
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