Good Time to Grass Seed in Vermont

Spring

• If you prefer spring planting, the University of Vermont website recommends planting grass seed in late April to May. This allows the new seedlings to establish a modest root system before summer temperatures arrive. Planting a new lawn in spring, however, also encourages crabgrass, broadleaved weeds and other warm-weather pests to emerge before your turf can adequately compete.

Fall

• In Vermont, late August and early September are also ideal times to plant cool-season lawns. The cooler temperatures reduce stress on the seedlings, and seeding your lawn in fall reduces competition from annual weeds. Additionally, fall-established lawns are strong enough in spring to tolerate pre-emergent herbicides and foot traffic.

Grass Selection

• Before seeding, make sure you have the right seed for the job. A mix ensures your lawn is able to tolerate a variety of environmental conditions. Dr. Leonard Perry, a professor with the University of Vermont Extension, recommends on the school's website a mix of 20 percent named, not common, perennial ryegrass, 30 percent Kentucky bluegrass and 50 percent creeping red fescue.