Spring has arrived here in Southeastern Massachusetts in all her glory! As the daffodils and tulips peek through the soil, our minds turn to our gardens and landscapes. Our lawns become a focus for many residents at this time of year. As we move into the season and temperatures start warming up, knowing the best practices for caring for your lawn is essential. One of the most frequently asked questions (FAQs) from potential and existing clients is, “When is the best time to overseed in Massachusetts?” In this informative blog, Lawn Squad of Southeastern MA will answer this question and address other concerns regarding seeding your lawn.
Core Aeration And Overseeding Your Lawn In Southeastern MA
There is more to properly overseeding your Southeastern MA lawn than just throwing out grass seed and starter fertilizer. Here at Lawn Squad, we recommend core aerating the lawn in tandem with overseeding. Core aeration gives your new seed a “backstage pass”, so to speak, into the soil and allows absorption of vital nutrients your new grass needs to thrive. It will also gently eliminate thatch buildup within the lawn. In addition to core aerating before adding the seed, we will include a seed enhancement that helps increase new grass germination rates along with roof development.
When Is The Best Time To Plant Grass Seed In Massachusetts?
Contrary to many assumptions, Spring may not be ideal for planting grass seed in your Southeastern MA lawn. This is because most lawns in the area consist of cool-weather turf grasses, such as fescue. This type of grass is abundant in our area. The fall (from late August to mid-October) is usually the best time to plant grass for cool-season grasses to ensure success. Here is why:
Overseeding with core aeration is best when soil temperatures are still warm and daytime temperatures are cooler. This promotes successful grass seed germination and growth before Winter to build a strong root system.
Why Is Fall Best?
The favorable temperatures of a typical Massachusetts Autumn will increase the success of seed germination and establishment. Additionally, most broadleaf weeds have finished their germination, giving your seedlings a better chance of survival. It also means they will not have to fight weeds to benefit from the necessary micronutrients, both applied and existing in your soil.
The Fall season is also more likely to bless us with more rain. Keeping your new seed and seedlings moist is crucial to supporting the new growth. And let’s not forget the mild temperatures during this period as we progress into Winter. Your newly seeded turf will have a few months to establish a strong root system prior to any Winter dormancy.
Is Spring Overseeding Even An Option?
While overseeding in Spring is possible and may be necessary in specific scenarios (such as a new construction home build where you need to establish a base lawn), it may not be ideal because of the threat of heat and drought stress. And, just as we mentioned above, your new seedlings may need to fight weeds to get the nutrients they need. If you choose to overseed during the Spring, ensure the soil temperature has consistently reached 55 degrees. Also, be prepared to give the lawn adequate watering. This is especially important during hot periods.
Consult With Your Southeastern MA Overseeding Experts To Learn More
Lawn Squad of Southeastern MA wants to be your local lawn care provider. We are the trusted, local source for all your lawn care needs. Contact us today to learn more and get started on your journey to a healthy, green lawn this season! You can also reach us by phone at (774) 295-1455.
