For beginner gardeners especially, it can appear difficult and frustrating to grow grass in Arizona's arid, hot climate. When seeding a lawn (which is less expensive than laying sod, but takes more time and patience), the key is to prepare the soil well and protect the grass seed. It's also important to choose a seed variety that is ideal for your Arizona region.
Measure your yard's square footage to determine how much grass seed you will need. Choose a grass seed that is ideal for Arizona landscaping and weather, such as Bermuda grass seed. This variety can survive Arizona heat and grows thick so it is disease resistant and won't wither easily.
Rake the soil in the planting area about 3 inches deep to loosen the dirt and remove such objects as rocks, weeds and dirt clods. This will also improve air circulation and water absorption, especially for Arizona's sandy or rocky soil types.
Seed the area in early spring season, which will have a strong enough sun to help the seeds germinate in Arizona. Distribute the seed evenly and thoroughly over your yard. Start on one side and layer the seed horizontally, then repeat that step vertically. Lightly rake the soil to incorporate the seed.
Water the area with a light shower of water immediately after planting for around 15 minutes to really soak the ground.
Layer a couple inches of straw or peat over the seed after watering. This will protect it from foraging animals and strong winds. Keep this protection over the grass until it is about 2 inches tall, especially if the weather is growing hot. It will help protect the thin young grass from burning in the Arizona sun.
Water your lawn a couple of times a day, once in the morning and again in the late afternoon until the grass germinates (about three weeks). At this point, decrease watering to every other day. In the summer time, water your yard daily since Arizona sun will dehydrate the grass blades and dry up water easily. In cooler seasons such as winter and early spring, decrease watering to twice per week.