How Late to Plant Grass Seed in Tennessee

Time Frame

• Tall fescue and timothy grass should be sown no later than October 1 for fall plantings and April 1 for spring plantings. Plant Kentucky bluegrass by September 15 and orchardgrass before October 1. Zoysia grass seed should be planted in May or June.

Significance

• Give grass seeds sufficient time to germinate before the soil temperature dips in the winter. It's best to wait until after fall rains begin to sow seed.

Considerations

• Test the soil for pH levels. If the soil has a pH of less than 6.0, amend it with lime six months before planting, following the application rates recommended by the test. Fertilize the seed with 40 lbs. of nitrogen per acre at planting time.