WHY SPRING IS BEST FOR WARM-SEASON GRASSES – Warm-season grasses sprout most well when soil temperatures are constantly between 65 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. This often correlates to midday air temperatures of 80 degrees Fahrenheit or above. Warm-season grasses have the benefit of warm soil and early seasonal rainfall during germination and establishment when they are planted in late spring and early summer.
The moderate spring climate aids the growth of grass seed put in the spring. As with cool-season grasses, optimal planting timings for warm-season grasses vary by area. Mid-April to mid-May is the optimal period to seed warm-season lawns in California.3 In the central and southern regions of Arkansas, warm-season grass sowing is scheduled for late May through June.2 It is tempting to seed at the first sign of spring, but patience is rewarded.
Wait until all frost risk has passed and the earth has warmed. Cold, moist soil promotes poor germination, seed rot, and disease. Your county’s extension agent can assist you with anticipated frost dates and timely weather-related information. In general, warm-season grasses that are planted at least 90 days prior to the first autumn frost have ample time to develop before winter.
These summer-loving grasses become dormant at temperatures around 55 degrees Fahrenheit, preventing late-planted seedlings from preparing for the future. With optimal scheduling, warm-season grass seed receives a natural boost from summer’s warmth and a complete season of active growth and development prior to the onset of winter hibernation caused by decreasing temperatures.
An exception to the spring seeding norm for warm-season lawns is when cool-season grasses, such as perennial ryegrass, are overseeded for brief winter color. Always performed in the fall, when temperatures begin to fall and warm-season lawns begin to go dormant and lose color, overseeding for winter grass is always performed at this time.
When is the optimal time to put grass seed?
AM versus PM? – Image attribution: In general, the ideal time to seed your lawn is early in the morning, before the sun becomes too hot. Seeds require between 12 and 16 hours of sunlight every day in order to germinate and begin developing. Morning seeding is an excellent technique to assure healthy germination and growth of warm-season grasses, which benefit from full sun exposure.
Should grass seed be soaked before planting?
Soak the seed for three to five days in water. Bluegrass must soak for five days. Ensure that all seed is saturated. Put the container in a dark location.
