The right time to plant in Nebraska depends on your turf type. The best time to plant cool-season grass in Nebraska is in late summer, while the best time to plant warm-season grass seed is in spring.
In this article, we’ll dive into why late summer and spring are the best times to plant grass seed in the Cornhusker State and answer some frequently asked questions.
The best time to plant grass seed in Nebraska
The best time to plant cool-season grasses in Nebraska is late summer, ideally between August 15 and September 15. As you move up to the Dakotas, you can do it a week or two earlier; and as you move south, a week or two later. Within these time windows, it is important to seed as early as possible.
For buffalograss, the only warm-season grass used in the state, it is best to seed in spring. June 1st is a good general date for planting warm-season grass in Nebraska. However, you can seed anytime within the best window for your region:
- Eastern Nebraska: Seed from May 15 to August 15
- Western Nebraska: Seed from May 31 to August 1st
Dormant seeding cool-season grasses can be done anytime from mid-to-late November through March. During the winter months, the seeds will remain dormant, and soil cracks will provide optimum conditions for germination in spring, in April or May.
Pro tip: If you’re searching for a step-by-step guide to planting grass seed, visit our article, “How to Plant Grass Seed,” to learn more.
When to overseed in Nebraska
For cool-season grasses, the best time to overseed your lawn in Nebraska is from August 15 to September 15. Late summer is the best time to overseed because:
- There is less weed competition than in spring.
- It’s easier to prepare the soil since it is usually warmer and dryer than in spring.
- The period from September to late November combines cool temperatures and adequate rainfall, making it perfect for cool-season grasses to grow.
FAQ about grass in Nebraska
What are the best grass seeds for Nebraska?
The best grass seeds for Nebraska are:
- Kentucky bluegrass (Read our guide: “Kentucky Bluegrass: How to Grow and Care for It.”)
- Tall fescue (Learn more about tall fescue in our guide: “Tall Fescue: How to Grow and Care for It.”)
- Buffalograss (See how to care for this warm-season grass in our article: “Buffalograss: How to Grow and Care for It.”)
Can all grass seeds be used for dormant seeding?
Perennial ryegrass and buffalograss are not recommended for dormant seeding. Perennial ryegrass has a fast germination time, so extended periods of warm weather during winter can cause the seeds to start germinating and turn into seedlings that will die once the temperatures start to drop again. Also, dormant seeding with buffalograss is rarely effective.
Can you overseed in Nebraska in the spring?
Yes, it is possible to overseed cool-season Nebraska lawns in the spring, from April 1st to May 15. After this window, it becomes more and more difficult because of:
- Increasing temperatures
- Intensified weed competition
- Progressively drier weather
When to call a pro
Seeding, overseeding, mowing, fertilizing… These are all high-effort and time-consuming tasks. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if you could wake up one day and have these tasks magically done? Well, we have lawn care pros in Nebraska that can make magic in your lawn. Get in touch today.
Main Image Credit: timages | Adobe Stock Free | License
