The Grass Doctor

Can I plant any type of grass seed in December?

A couple weeks ago we got Bermuda from another person's backyard when they were putting in a pool. Unfortunately, I didn't know that it was Bermuda and that was a summer grass. I don't know how long it was planted in their yard for, but it doesn't seem to be taking root in our yard. I wanted to spread a winter seed on top but found our that we are between seasons. We have spread Scott's turf builder and Ammonium Sulfate on the lawn but it doesn't seem to help it take root or get any greener. Any suggestions?

Public Comments

1. It is usually a bad time to seed or set grass in winter in cold climate areas. Winter rye is used a lot in cold weather yet it takes a warm spell for it to sprout. Most grasses need a dormant period and will just sit there until spring,fertilizing will not help. since you have already set the grass just leave it and hope with warmer weather it might still take. Talk to your local agriculture extension agent for specific details for your location.
2. Don't worry, your bermuda isn't dead it's just dormant, and sleeping thru the winter cold. Go to the garden center and buy " Annual Rye" grass seed . This will sprout inside of 7 days and green up your yard, and fade and die off about the time that it's warm enough for your bermuda to come to life and start growing and spreading. It's a low grass about 4 inches tops so you don't even have to mow in the muddy winter. It will also re-seed itself and should come back next fall when it's cold again, but if not, it's cheap, just buy some more seed and plant it when it gets chilly again, and have a green lawn year around. I always overseed my bermuda with annual rye.... I like green outside my windows in the winter :)