How to Plant Grass Seed in November in Kentucky

Planting Grass Seed in Kentucky in November

Gardeners in Kentucky do not have to reminisce about summertime green lawns. Because these regions see a drop in temperatures ranging from -5 to -20 degrees F, warm season grass cannot survive these temperatures. By planting cool season grass, you are able to produce a green expense during the winter depending on your region's snow cover or in the early spring. Plant cool season grass for a lush green lawn in between snow falls.

Things You'll Need

• Shovel
• Soil thermometer
• Soil test
• Lime
• Sulfur
• Grass roller
• Compost
• Rake
• Fertilizer

Instructions

1. Remove the warm season grass from your lawn. Warm season grass tends to die out as soon as soil temperatures dip to 70 degrees F. Cool season grass seeds need soil temperatures to reach 50 to 65 degrees F. in order to germinate. Monitor your soil temperatures and dig out the existing lawn when the grass dies or temperatures become favorable for cool season grass seed germination.

2. Choose a cool season grass to grow. There are numerous types of both ryegrass and bluegrass to grow. According to the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife, planting fescue is not recommended because the grass type is a poor habitat for wildlife. Find out what the soil's pH range should be for your chosen grass type.

3. Conduct a soil pH test on your yard to ensure it is within the range for your grass. Grass grown outside of its preferred range becomes discolored and unhealthy. Purchase a soil testing kit from your local county extension office. Send in soil samples and wait a few weeks for the results. Add lime to acidic soil and sulfur to alkaline soil.

4. Broadcast your grass seed in your yard. Move back and forth across the yard to get an even coverage of seeds. Roll a grass roller across the yard to press the seed into the soil.

5. Rake 1/2 inch of dirt or compost over the seeds. Roll a grass roller across the yard to press the seed into the soil. Water thoroughly.

Tips & Warnings

• Fertilize your grass seed once it has become established and grown over one inch. Use a fertilizer high in nitrogen or apply one pound of nitrogen every 1,000 square feet.

• Avoid fertilizing your grass seed at the time of planting, because you can burn your grass.

References

• Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Department: Cool Season Grasses
• Seedland: Tips on Seasonal Times to Plant Grass Seeds
• All About Lawns: Careful Calendaring