The Grass Doctor

When is the best time to lay grass seed?

I have a small backyard in New Jersey with very limited sun (roughly Noon to 5 PM). What time of grass seed should I look for and what time of year is best to plant the seeds? Thanks.

Public Comments

1. june to oct
2. Sow (not lay as one lays sod [green side up] not seed). Drop into a local nursery for advice on when to sow and what.
3. Not sure what kind of seed but plant it right before the first frost and cover with straw.
4. Just about every expert says that September is best time to plant grass seed in your area. You'll have very limited success if you try to do it this Spring--weeds and heat will win out over the new grass! Next August , buy a good "shade mix" grass seed. Prepare the ground; if less than half of current yard is good grass, kill it ALL off with "RoundUp" weed killer. Wait a week and rake out the debris and then plant right after Labor Day holiday, using a "broadcast" type spreader. (Buy and Put down "Starter" Fertilizer at same time--do not use regular fertilizer.) Keep watered daily until grass is well established. Finally , after Thanksgiving, put down a good "winterizer" type lawn fertilizer. You'll be proud and amazed at your beautiful green yard! Good luck!