What is our current Soil Temperature?

An often asked question.. 

What is the best temperature to plant my grass seed for germination?

“Aim to seed early in the season, but wait until daytime temperatures are in the 60 to 75 degree Fahrenheit range. This roughly corresponds to the optimal soil temperatures for cool-season grass seed germination. Spring sunshine and rain both contribute to strong grass growth.” 

Optimum *soil* temps for germination is 65-75 degrees, which corresponds to air temperatures in the 60-75 degree range consistently. 

Early Season (April/May) vs. Late Season (Sept/Oct) planting:

A lot of people like to seed in the fall because soil temps are already high from the warm summer months, and it gives more time in the "germination zone" during the typically cooler and wetter months of September and October.

April and May planting is a great time as well, the main key is to watch the air temps and not put the seed down until it is consistently 65 degrees plus, which is often Mid-May.

The keys to germination are:  Soil Temp, Sunshine, and Water.

We've also installed plenty of lawns in June and July and while its crucial that the clients keep the seed moist with a good watering plan..  we've never had a client complain their lawn didn't germinate - especially those lawns with built in irrigation.

One key point is we only use top-quality Lesco Brand seed. There *IS* a difference between discount seed and premium seed.

So.. why exactly do we want fast germination? So the birds don’t eat it first! 😀🦜