Considerations

• There are several differences between warm and cool season grass that are important to consider before planting. Warm-season turf grasses such as Bermuda and carpetgrass will remain green through the summer with adequate irrigation, but turn light brown in the fall and remain colorless through winter. Cool-season grasses such as ryegrass and bluegrass may go dormant during the warm temperatures of summer, but thrive in the cool winters in Virginia and often remain green all year. The Virginia Cooperative Extension Service suggest testing your soil before deciding what grass to plant to ensure that you do not end up with disappointing results.
  
  

Warm-season Grass

• Mid-spring through mid-summer is the best time to plant warm-season grasses in Virginia. The small seeds will readily take root and establish healthy growth when distributed with organic fertilizers on freshly tilled soils. It is important to irrigate the freshly sown seeds frequently until they germinate. When properly planted, warm-season grasses will fully cover your lawn in two months.
  
  

Cool-season Grass

• Cool-season grasses give the best results when planted at the end of summer or into the fall. Cool-season grasses are most productive when temperatures are between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit and they receive plenty of water. They can be sown in the spring, but it is much more difficult as the onset of an early summer can cause stress and stagnation in their growth. Additional fertilization is not necessary when planting cool-season grass in the fall for healthy growth. Irrigate often and lightly until germination is complete. After established, water thoroughly and infrequently for best results.