Landscaping Experts Recommend Optimal Time for Sowing Grass Seeds in Spring
Whether you've got a sprawling front lawn or a humble patch of grass, everyone dreams of having a lush yard come spring and summer. The secret to a stunning landscape is knowing when to sow grass seed, ensuring the seeds germinate and root properly. Experts agree that planting at the right time gives the grass seeds the best chance to absorb natural rainfall, reducing the need for supplemental irrigation. To find out when to plant grass seed in spring, we chatted with lawn aficionados - Brian Feldman from TruGreen, John Crider of Crider Landscaping, and Ryan Walts, Lawn Squad's franchise training coordinator.
Time to Seed: It's all about Temperature
When planting grass seed in early spring, focus less on the exact month and more on the outdoor temperature. Ideal seed-growing temperatures vary by grass type. Cool-season seeds thrive when temperatures hover around 70 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Warmer-season grasses prefer soil temperatures around 80 degrees.
"Cool-season grasses should be sown once the outdoor temperature consistently falls within this range," advises Feldman. Warm-season grass seeds should be planted in late spring or early summer, once the temperatures reach around 80 degrees.
Planting at the Wrong Time: Woes Await
Planting seeds at the wrong time can lead to several problems, emphasizes our experts. The most significant are poor germination and slow growth. Cool soil temperatures or competition from weeds make it challenging for the seeds to establish properly.
Sowing seeds too early can also leave them susceptible to animal predators, who may feed on them while they're waiting for the right weather. Plus, if the seeds lie dormant outside for too long, they may rot or dry out before proper root development.
Spring-Time Grass Seeding Tips
Given the potential pitfalls of late spring seeding, here are some must-adhere-to tips to set your seeds up for success:
Prepare the Soil
Broken-up soil with good seed-to-soil contact is key for successful germination. Achieve this by raking, aerating, or dethatching the soil. For small lawns or patches, even a simple leaf rake can suffice.
Pick the Right Grass Species
Select grass species that fit your region's climate and light conditions. Cool-season grasses lend themselves to the north, while warm-season grasses thrive in the southern parts of the country.
Spread the Seeds Evenly
Use a seed spreader to guarantee even distribution. Then, lightly cover the seeds with topsoil to protect them while allowing sunlight access. Maintain consistent moisture but avoid excessive watering.
Care for Your Seeds Properly
Water your new lawn adequately to ensure the best results – light watering several times a day until germination. Be patient, as too much foot traffic can hinder seed growth. Keep off your new lawn altogether until the roots have properly established.
And finally, resist the urge to mow too soon. Wait until the grass reaches the same height as the surrounding grass before tackling that chore. Your newly sown grass seed deserves a break, and proper care can result in a beautifully green lawn that's the envy of your neighborhood!
- Martha Stewart suggests considering cool-season grasses for planting in spring, as they thrive in temperatures around 70 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Spring rainfall plays an essential role in establishing lush grass, helping to germinate the seeds and promote root growth, reducing the need for supplemental irrigation.
- Following Martha Stewart's guidelines for planting grass seeds in the spring, focus on preparing the soil well before sowing, using a seed spreader for even distribution, and maintaining consistent moisture without overwatering.
- As the seeds germinate and grow into lush grass, avoid trampling on the new lawn to prevent hindering root development, and wait until the grass reaches the same height as surrounding grass before mowing for optimal results.
