The Best Time to Lay Grass Seed

Disperse grass seed in the fall or spring for best results.

Grass seed does best when it is sown around temperature extremes. Dispersing the seed when it is too hot or too cold will cause the seed to die and slow down root development and spread.

Timing

Grass seed can be sown in spring or late summer to early fall. Spring planting (April is ideal) gives the young grass time to develop roots before the heat sets in. If you're eyeing the fall, cool-season grasses do best when planted between August 15 and September 15.

Considerations

Plant cool-season grass when the soil temperature is between 50 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Warm-season grass seed grows best in soil temperatures of 65 to 70 F. If you live in Southern states, warm-season grasses should not be planted later than 60 days before the first frost. If you live in Northern states, plant no later than 90 days before the first frost.

Warning

You can lay grass seed in the late fall if needed. It may not have time to germinate, however. The seed can stay dormant all winter and sprout when spring arrives. There is a risk -- the seed may be washed away during winter.

References

• N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services: Lawn and Garden Tips
• All About Lawns: Careful Calendaring: When to Plant Grass Seed
• Seedland: Tips on Seasonal Time to Plant Grass Seeds