Fall, from August 1 to September 15, is the best time to plant cool-season grass seed in the Buckeye State, followed by spring. Fall is preferred due to less weed competition and warmer soil temperatures lingering from summer.
Best time to plant grass seed in Ohio
The best time to plant grass seed in Ohio is between August 1 to September 15. The reasoning for this time frame is that the soil is still warm from the summer, and the cool nights are starting to usher in the fall.
Pro Tip: If you live north of I-70, finish your planting by the end of August. If you live south of I-70, plant as late as September 15.
Second best time to plant grass seed in Ohio
The second best time to plant grass seed in Ohio is spring. Shoot for April 1 to May 15 if you live north of I-70. If you live south of I-70, you can spread seed a little earlier, from March 15 to April 30.
If you are unsure about the best grass seed in Ohio, check out our article: “Best Grass Seed for Ohio.”
Best time to overseed in Ohio
The best time to overseed and repair your existing lawn is from August 1 to September 15. If you notice your turf has large dead patches, or if more than 40 percent of your lawn is covered in weeds, your lawn likely needs overseeding.
Note: If you notice your lawn has loads of weeds, check out our article: “Most Common Weeds in Ohio Lawns.” After reading our article, you will know how to spot the weeds and then prevent them from competing with your cool-season grass seed.
FAQ
How late can you plant grass seed in Ohio?
You may be able to plant grass as late as early October, but it’s risky. Ohio weather can be unpredictable, and there’s the chance the lawn may not establish due to an early bout of cold weather.
What are the main reasons grass seedlings fail?
The main reasons why grass seedlings fail are:
- Lack of seed-to-soil contact
- Failure to control weeds
- Seeds are planted too deeply in the soil
Note: If you need more information on how to prevent your grass seed from dying, check out our article: “How to Plant Grass Seed.”
What are the keys to grass seeding in Ohio?
Incorporate these six elements when you are seeding a new lawn for a greater likelihood of success. They are as follows:
- Follow the recommended seeding time frame for your area
- Prepare your seed bed properly
- Ensure seed-to-soil contact
- Choose good quality cool-season seeds
- Manage fertilizer use
- Control weeds
Call in the pros
If you’re too busy or don’t want to figure out the best time to plant grass seed, why not let Lawn Love do it? Our lawn care service pros know just when and how to get your cool-season lawn off on the right foot. Then you can head out and enjoy Hot Browns and Buckeyes, knowing that your lawn is in good hands.
Main Image Credit: Wlodzimierz | Adobe Stock | License
