When is the Best Time To Seed a Lawn?
If your lawn is looking thin or bare, it might be time to sow it with a layer of grass seed to restore it to its lush, green state.
The cool-season grasses of Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware fare best in the fall when the air is cooling down but the soil is still warm, giving grass a few months to grow before winter comes around.
Read on to learn more about why fall is the best time to seed your lawn.
Why is Fall the Best Time To Seed Your Lawn?
In Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware, early fall is the optimal period for sowing grass seeds due to several compelling reasons. Seeding during this time enables cool-season grasses to establish robustly before the onset of winter. It is advisable to sow approximately two months prior to the first frost of the season.
During fall, the prevalence of active lawn diseases diminishes, and weed growth subsides, reducing competition for sunlight and water. As tree leaves begin to fall, sunlight availability increases.
Moisture is crucial for cultivating a healthy lawn, making spring the second-most favorable, albeit less ideal, season for seeding.
Why You Shouldn't Seed Your Lawn in Spring
Though the moisture and warm air are beneficial to grass growth, there are a few things about spring that make it less-than-ideal for reseeding. Weeds are more prevalent in the spring, which causes grass to have to compete for the nutrients it needs to thrive. Spring also means that summer is right around the corner.
The summer’s hot temperatures and drought conditions can introduce undesirable stress to your new lawn so your better off using fertilizer and weed control in preparation for the fall.
Tips for Seeding Any Time of Year:
- Mow Low: Trim your lawn to a shorter height to ensure grass seeds can easily reach the soil.
- Aerate and Dethatch: Alleviate soil compaction and remove excess thatch to promote better seed-to-soil contact.
- Fertilize: Use a seed-starting fertilizer to support the development of a strong root system.
- Use a Seed Spreader: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for even seed distribution.
- Water Regularly: Maintain soil moisture consistently after seeding to encourage healthy growth.
Call Us For Expert Advice
We're here to help you seed your Pennsylvania, New Jersey or Delaware lawn when the timing is right. Contact us today for a free consultation to make it look healthy and full again.
