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.
Will grass seed grow if it is just scattered on the ground?
The brief answer is “yes.” Grass seed can sprout if you simply scatter it on the ground, but the germination rate will be significantly higher if you prepare the soil and distribute it properly. While the seed might sprout if you just scatter it on the ground, you should be aware that there are a few disadvantages to planting seeds in this manner.
What temperature is optimal for sowing grass seed?
Spring planting and dormant seedings won’t sprout until soil temperatures are above 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Optimal temperatures vary between 50 and 65 degrees (measured at a depth of 2 inches). Once we attain this soil temperature, the germination process will commence.
