The best time to plant grass seed in New York State is mid-August through September, when the climate is favorable for seed growth.
If you miss the late summer to early fall window, you can also plant grass seed in spring as a second option, although it is not ideal. Keep reading to understand why.
The best time to plant grass seed in New York
Mid-August through September is the best time to plant grass seed in New York State. Because the best grasses for New York lawns are cool-season grasses, late summer to early fall provides optimal environmental conditions, namely:
- Cooler temperatures
- Adequate rainfall
- Two seasons of growth before facing summer heat stress
- Reduced weed competition
But if you miss the late summer to early fall period, you can also seed your lawn in early spring when your grass will benefit from the rainy, cooler days of the early season. But keep in mind that spring seedings are more susceptible to weed competition and heat stress, which can impair your lawn growth.
Pro Tip: See our other articles to read detailed information on how to plant grass seed and how to grow your lawn:
The best time to overseed in New York
The best time to overseed in New York State is early fall (September). Overseeding with perennial ryegrass can be done between late August all the way through early October. If you opt to overseed with tall fescue, do it from the last half of August to the first half of September, because it needs warmth to germinate. Kentucky bluegrass can be seeded in October.
Overseeding in the fall is ideal because the weather is cool and the rainfall keeps the soil moist. Additionally, the summer weeds will already be dead. Overseeding in the fall will help prevent them from establishing again in the spring since a denser turf can crowd out undesirable weeds.
Before you plant: Whether you’re seeding a lawn from scratch or overseeding an existing lawn, do your homework before you start laying down seed. Take a soil test to learn more about your lawn’s soil composition and nutrient levels so you can prepare your lawn adequately.
Check out our article on “How to Soil Test Your Lawn” for more information.
FAQ about lawn care in New York
What are the best grass seeds for New York State lawns?
The best grass seeds for New York State are cool-season grasses, such as Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, tall fescue, and fine fescue.
What are New York State’s planting zones?
New York State encompasses eight different hardiness zones, from zones 4a to 7b. See more on the topic by visiting our article on “New York Planting Zones.”
What can I plant in my New York garden?
Some of the best New York native plants for your landscape are:
- Great blue lobelia (Lobelia siphilitica)
- New England aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae)
- Little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium)
- Common buttonbush (Cephalanthus occidentalis)
- Wild bergamot (Monarda fistulosa)
Pro Tip: If you’re looking for plants that last year after year in your landscape or garden, visit our guide on “The Best Perennials for New York Landscapes.”
When to call a pro
Haven’t got the time to seed or overseed your lawn this season? You can leave it to the pros. Contact a trusted lawn care pro today and get yourself a green, lush lawn.
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Main Image Credit: Lachlan E. McKinnon House, Buffalo, New York | Andre Carrotflower | Wikimedia Commons | CC BY-SA 4.0
