As we begin to see the darker evenings come in and a slight coolness in the air we know autumn has arrived, but did you also know that during September and October and even through to November it is a great time to sow grass seed.
During autumn many fear it is too cold to for seed germination but this is not the case at all. The recommended soil temperature is 9-12 degrees. A temperate that many parts of South England will see even in November.
7 Reasons to sow grass seed in autumn
- Better Conditions: Soil is much warmer, air is cooler and there is more rain – so this provides better conditions for germinations.
- Fewer Feeds: Weed seedlings are more rampant in spring, so your autumn sown grass will have less competition as it establishes.
- Ahead of the game: You are ahead of the game for next season – no need to reseed in spring as you will have an already established lawn.
- Ready For summer: Sowing in autumn means your lawn will develop the whole of winter when the space is not used. Sowing in spring means your lawn will still be developing in summer, at a time when you want to make the most of your garden.
- Less waters management: Spring sowing means you have to worry more about hot weather and the availability of water as seeds need constant supply. Cool autumn rain means less water management.
- Stronger established lawn by spring: Young grass plants have more time to grow and get healthy before next summer stress comes. You are giving them a head start to be as strong as possible.
- Fewer greedy friends: There is a reduction in the risk of birds damaging seedbeds due to migration and the availability of other food during autumn and winter.