Seed cool-season grasses in North Carolina between mid-August and mid-October. Spring sowing doesn't give the young seedlings time to strengthen before hot, dry weather arrives. The roots cannot get the moisture they need to combat the heat.
Consider sowing a mixture of several types of grasses, suggests the North Carolina Department of Agriculture. This practice improves the seeds' ability to handle conditions such as soil moisture and temperature. Mixtures also ward off turf diseases better.
Take time before planting grass in the fall to amend the soil. North Carolina soil commonly suffers from a low pH, making it acidic. Add agricultural grade limestone six months before sowing seed.