The best time to put grass seed down depends mainly on the type of grass and your local climate. Here are general guidelines:
- Cool-season grasses (like Kentucky bluegrass, fescue, ryegrass) are best planted in late summer to early fall (usually August to October). This timing allows seeds to germinate in warm soil with cooler air temperatures and less weed competition. Early fall planting also gives grass time to establish roots before winter.
- Warm-season grasses (like Bermuda, St. Augustine, Zoysia) are best planted in late spring to early summer when soil temperatures are consistently warm (around 65°F or higher). This ensures the grass seedlings have a full warm season to establish before cooler temperatures arrive.
- In general, spring and early fall are ideal planting times because the soil is warm and moisture levels are favorable for seed germination.
- Planting too early in spring risks poor germination due to cold soil, and planting too late in summer can expose seedlings to heat stress.
- Many sources emphasize early fall as the top window for seeding cool-season lawns and late spring for warm-season lawns.
If you want to time it precisely for your region, it's best to plant cool- season grass seed about 6-8 weeks before your area's first expected frost and warm-season grass seed once soil temperatures reach 65°F or higher. In summary:
- Cool-season grasses: Late summer to early fall (August to October)
- Warm-season grasses: Late spring to early summer (May to June)
This guidance maximizes your chance for a healthy, well-established lawn.
