The Best Time to Plant Grass in Ohio

Planting Time

• The best time to plant grass in northern Ohio is from mid August to mid September. Plant grass any time during the month of September if you live in central or southern Ohio. Alternately, for those living in northern Ohio, the Ohio State University recommends waiting to plant grass until the early spring if planting cannot be completed before the middle of October. Those in southern Ohio have until the end of October before the university recommends putting off planting until spring.

Preparing the Area

• Proper preparation of the planting site, prior to planting grass seed, is essential to the success of your new lawn. If any other grass varieties of weeds are growing in the area apply a non-selective herbicide, such as Roundup, to the entire area. Two applications, spaced one to two months apart, may be necessary to completely irradiate the plants. (reference 2)

Fertilizing the Soil

• Prior to planting grass seed, add fertilizer to the soil. It is common for soil in Ohio to be deficient in phosphorus. Phosphorous aids in the healthy growth cycle of grass and its root system, so a phosphorous-rich fertilizer is recommended. Some soils may also require the addition of lime. A soil test should always be performed before applying lime to ensure the proper amount is added to the soil.