When To Plant Grass In Tennessee - A Complete Guide

Planting the right grass at the right time is key to achieving a beautiful and healthy lawn in Tennessee. With its varied climate, Tennessee provides the ideal environment for different types of grass, but understanding when to plant and what type of grass works best for your area can make all the difference in how your lawn grows and thrives.

Best Time to Seed Grass in Tennessee

Timing is crucial when it comes to seeding grass, as planting at the wrong time can result in poor growth. The best time to seed grass in Tennessee depends on the type of grass you're planting:

• Cool-Season Grasses (like Fescue): The best time to plant cool-season grasses is in the early fall, typically between late September and early November. This allows the grass to establish roots before winter arrives. Fall temperatures are ideal for cool-season grasses, as they grow best in moderate temperatures.
• Warm-Season Grasses (like Bermuda and Zoysia): The best time to plant warm-season grasses is in the late spring or early summer, from mid-April to early June. Warm-season grasses thrive when soil temperatures consistently reach 65°F to 70°F, which typically occurs after the last frost. Bermuda grass, for instance, requires warmer soil to germinate and establish itself.

When Does Grass Stop Growing in Tennessee?

Grass growth in Tennessee generally slows down as temperatures drop in late fall. For cool-season grasses like fescue, growth may continue into the cooler months, but for warm-season grasses, growth typically ceases by the time the weather turns colder in late fall or early winter.

• Cool-Season Grass: Can still grow in the fall, though it slows down as temperatures drop.
• Warm-Season Grass: Stops growing in late fall or early winter when temperatures fall below the ideal range.

What Grass Stays Green All Year in Tennessee?

If you're looking for a grass type that stays green all year in Tennessee, Fescue grass is your best option. As a cool-season grass, it thrives in the fall and winter months and can withstand the cooler temperatures that Tennessee experiences in the winter. However, if you're in a warmer area, you may want to consider Zoysia grass, which, though a warm-season variety, holds up well through the cooler months in Tennessee.

When to Plant Bermuda Grass in Tennessee

Bermuda grass is best planted in late spring to early summer, when temperatures consistently rise above 65°F. Typically, you should wait until after the last frost (usually around mid-April to early June) to ensure that the grass has enough warmth to germinate and thrive. Planting Bermuda grass too early in the season can result in poor seedling growth, so timing is key.

When Does Grass Start Growing in Tennessee?

Grass in Tennessee generally begins growing in early spring, when soil temperatures begin to warm up. Cool-season grasses like fescue start growing as soon as temperatures reach the 50°F to 65°F range, which typically happens in early to mid-spring. Warm-season grasses like Bermuda begin to grow once the temperatures consistently rise above 65°F, usually in late spring or early summer.

Tips for Planting Grass in Tennessee

1. Prepare the Soil: Make sure your soil is free of debris, weeds, and any previous grass growth before planting. Aerating the soil can also help the grass seed establish roots more effectively.
2. Watering: Keep your newly planted grass well-watered, especially during dry periods. However, avoid overwatering, as this can promote fungal growth and other lawn issues.
3. Fertilizing: Use a balanced fertilizer to encourage healthy grass growth. For cool-season grasses, apply a high-nitrogen fertilizer in the fall to promote root growth. For warm-season grasses, apply fertilizer in the late spring or early summer.
4. Choose the Right Grass Variety: Depending on your location in Tennessee, choose a cool-season or warm-season grass that thrives best in your area’s climate and growing conditions.

Conclusion

Knowing the best time to plant grass seed in Tennessee, along with selecting the right grass type for your region, will ensure that your lawn flourishes throughout the year. For cool-season grasses like Fescue, fall is the ideal time to seed, while warm-season grasses like Bermuda should be planted in late spring or early summer. By following the tips and planting guidelines above, you’ll be on your way to a healthy, vibrant lawn that will thrive in Tennessee’s unique climate.

‍

Bourne Brothers Landscaping