Trying to plant grass in your lawn to cover a dirt spot but not sure when to plant grass seed but not sure when is the best time of year?
Everyone wants to have a full, green yard that makes the neighbors jealous as they drive past and planting your seed at the right time is essential. There are a number of variables that go into when you should plant grass seed in your yard, the most important factors are the type of seed and your location.
The best time to plant grass seeds is different in each State so make sure your lawn is ready for summer and you know how to use your weed eater! In this guide the lawncare experts at Whack Your Weeds will teach you everything you need to know about the best time of year to plant new grass seeds.
Table of Contents
Best Time of Year for Different Grass Types
There are 2 types of grass, cool weather and warm weather grasses. Cool weather grasses include varieties like Rye, Frescue, Bluegrass and Kentucky while warm weather types include St. Augustine, Zoysia and Bermuda. While each type of grass can grow in the other’s climate they do much better in their native weather.
If your lawn is seeded with the opposite seed for your climate you may need to reseed in the fall and water a little extra in the summer. It is important to remember that each variety of grass has its own optimal growth period so it is important to be familiar with the types of grass you have on your property.
Grass Climate Zones
The US has been divided into four zones by the United States Nation Arboretum, based on climate to simplify choosing the best grass seed for your area. The Cool/Humid region is found in the Northeast and Northwest, Warm/Arid is found along the Southern border from California to Texas, Warm/Humid runs from Southern Texas to South Carolina, the Cool/Arid region is found in the middle of the country and there is a large transition zone where many types of grass can grow in the middle of the country.
| Climate | Grass Type |
|---|---|
| Cool/Humid – | Cool weather grasses |
| Warm/Arid – | Warm weather grasses |
| Cool/Arid – | Cool weather grasses |
| Warm/Humid – | Warm weather grasses |
When to plant cool weather grass
The best time to plant cool weather grasses is in late August to Labor Day Weekend. Planting after the heat of summer gives your seeds a much better chance of survival rather than suffering through a mid summer drought. Always make sure to check the weather before planting! A late Summer thunderstorm or flash flood can sweep your new grass seeds into the gutter.
After planting cool weather seeds give your lawn a light watering, but make sure not to over do it! Too much water can wash away your new seeds before they are able to establish themselves in your lawn.
When to plant warm weather grass
The best time to plant warm weather grass is mid March to early July. In order for best results, the temperature needs to be above 65 degrees during the day. The warm weather, and light from the Summer Sun, allow newly planted seeds to establish themselves before the cooler weather of Fall and Winter.
Make sure your warm weather grass has at least 90 days to grow before the weather gets below 55 degrees! Like always, check the weather forecast before planting warm weather grass seeds. Afternoon Spring thunderstorms can wash away a morning of planting in only a few minutes!
If you planted grass seeds in early spring and are in the middle of a summer drought, make sure your grass gets enough water or it may die! Warm weather grasses like sandy, well drained soil and lots of direct sunlight.
What is the best month to plant grass seed?
The best time to plant grass seed will depend on the climate in which you live and what type of grass you are planting. Cool weather grasses typically do best when planted in late August or early September, while warm weather grasses should be planted between mid March and mid July.
When should I plant grass seed in spring?
The best time to plant grass seed in spring is around mid-March to early July. Make sure the temperature is above 65 degrees for optimal growth, and provide your lawn with about 90 days of growing time before temperatures drop below 55 degrees. Be sure to check the weather forecast before planting as afternoon thunderstorms can wash away a morning’s work!
Is it better to plant grass seed in the spring or fall?
We recommend planting grass seed in fall for cool-weather grasses, or in the spring for warm-weather grasses. Planting during these cooler months allows the soil and air temperatures to be more ideal for germination. Fall is also typically a wetter time of year with more consistent rainfall that can help keep your grass looking lush.