Loading calculator...
Lawn Care Expert
Ask me anything
Find out if it's too late to seed your lawn based on your location and grass type. Get personalized seeding windows and expert recommendations.
Methodology by James Thornton, Lawn Equipment & Maintenance Expert | 20 Years. Reviewed February 1, 2026. Based on university extension service guidelines.
Loading product recommendations...
Cool-season grasses (like Kentucky Bluegrass and Fescues) thrive in fall seeding when soil is cooling but air is still warm, while warm-season grasses (like Bermuda and Zoysia) need to be seeded in late spring or early summer when soil temperatures reach 65-70°F.
You may still have success in the "acceptable" window, though establishment may be slower or require extra care like more frequent watering. Outside these windows, consider using sod for immediate results or wait for the next optimal seeding period.
Optimal windows provide the best conditions for rapid germination and establishment. Acceptable windows work but may require more care, take longer to establish, or have slightly lower success rates. Both are better than seeding outside these periods.
Soil temperature is key! For cool-season grasses, soil should be 50-65°F. For warm-season grasses, aim for 65-70°F. Use our soil temperature tool to check current conditions in your area.
For cool-season grasses, seed 6-8 weeks before the first expected frost to allow establishment. For warm-season grasses, wait until after the last frost when soil temperatures are consistently warm. Our calculator accounts for these frost dates.