Track soil temps for optimal lawn care timing.Monitor soil temperatures and compare to historical averages for optimal lawn care timing.
Know when to overseed, apply pre-emergent, or fertilize based on actual soil conditions.
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Know the exact window for seeding, fertilizing, and weed prevention
Compare current temps to 5-year and 10-year averages
Get soil temperature specific to your ZIP code or city
Soil temperature directly affects seed germination, root growth, and nutrient uptake. Cool-season grass seeds germinate best at 50-65°F, while warm-season grasses need 65-75°F. Pre-emergent herbicides work best before soil reaches 55°F.
This tool displays soil temperature at approximately 2 inches (6cm) depth, the standard depth for lawn care decisions where grass seed germinates and most root activity occurs.
Apply pre-emergent when soil temperatures consistently reach 50°F but before they hit 55°F. Crabgrass germinates around 55°F, so pre-emergent needs to be in place before that. Most areas have a 2-3 week window.
Cool-season grasses (Bluegrass, Fescue, Ryegrass): 50-65°F, best in fall.
Warm-season grasses (Bermuda, Zoysia, St. Augustine): 65-75°F, best in late spring.
