Is it Too Early to Plant Grass?

The best time to plant turf grass depends on several variables, including the type of grass being planted and the local climate. Following planting guidelines encourages seed germination and healthy growth in a new lawn.

Types

• Plan on planting cool-season grass when temperatures remain lower, providing more favorable conditions for seed germination. Likewise, plant warm-season grasses when warm weather favors its fast growth and development.

Season

• Plant cool-season grass in the late summer, when heat poses less threat to developing grass roots, yet grass still has ample time to become established before colder weather sets in. Warm-season grass develops best when planted in late spring or early summer, before the hottest weather arrives. Avoid early spring planting, when weeds grow quickly, competing with new grass seed for nutrients, water and space.

Soil

• Wait for soil temperatures to reach approximately 65 degrees Fahrenheit before planting grass. This is the temperature at which most grass seed begins to germinate. Planting grass in soil at lower temperatures results in poor germination rates and stunted growth, according to New Mexico State University Cooperative Extension.