Getty Images / schulzie
When it comes to starting a new lawn from seed, timing is critical.
Seeds and seedlings require specific environmental conditions for optimal germination and establishment.
These needs vary from one species of turfgrass to the next.
Credit:Getty Images / schulzie
Understanding when to plant grass seed based ongrass typeand your location will ensure you get the best coverage.
Why Is Timing Important for Planting Grass Seed?
Grasses begin life as a single root and leaf blade fed by a tiny seed.
These small plants are quite vulnerable.
Like other plants in the landscape, grasses have periods of active growth that align with specific seasons.
Youll have the greatest success establishing your lawn when you match planting time to these active growth phases.
Lawn grasses can be divided into two main types: cool-season grasses and warm-season grasses.
Southern landscapes include both types of grasses, with warm-season grasses being the dominant turf key in.
They put out a flush of growth when spring arrives.
Location
Your location will further direct when to seed grasses based on regional climate conditions.
In general, spring arrives later the farther north you travel.
As such, soils will warm later in the year than in more southerly landscapes.
Likewise, cool fall temperatures arrive earlier in the north than in the south.
Rainfall patterns also play a role, as rains typically arrive with the shift in seasons.
Lets take a closer look at planting times and the ideal environmental conditions.
For warm-season grasses, warm soil is key.
Wait to sow seed until soil temperatures are consistently above 65F.
For example, north-facing slopes tend to warm slower than south-facing slopes.
Sowing warm-season grasses in late spring or early summer provides the additional benefit of seasonal rainfall.
Sowing too late in the summer can expose seedlings to cold temperatures before theyve had time to fully establish.
Avoid seeding too late in the season, as seeds do not germinate as well in colder soils.
Be careful to avoid planting in cold, wet soil in spring.
Start by identifying the best turf pop in for your planting site.
Average rainfall, as well as summer and winter temperatures for your location, will direct your selections.
Also consider sun exposure, soil conditions, and access to irrigation.
When youve identified the ideal turf bang out, purchase high-quality seed for optimal germination.
Plan to sow seed at the recommended rate for rapid coverage.
Skimping on seed seldom saves money in the long run.
Plan Ahead
A uniform planting bed with ample nutrients is essential to seedling establishment.
Plan ahead when preparing your planting site.
Conduct a soil test early enough to allow time for you to obtain test results and fertilizer recommendations.
Prepare the seed bed by removing existing vegetation, rocks, and other debris.
This will ensure good seed to soil contact.
Plant Properly
Use a drop spreader to broadcast the seed across the entire planting area.
This ensures good seed to soil contact.
As seedlings emerge, reduce the frequency of watering and practice deeper irrigation.
Do not allow the soil to completely dry during the first few months as the grass seedlings establish roots.
With proper timing and care, you might establish a healthy, vigorous lawn in a single season.
Getting the timing right will ensure rapid germination and plant development.
