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A question we are often asked is: “When can I sow grass seed?”
There is no straightforward answer to this, as it is dependent on the climate where you live and how moist the air is likely to be at any given time, however there is some general guidance around the best times to sow.
It is also worth remembering that it is not only when and where you sow that is important, but also what seeds you choose as there are some which will work better in your soil than others.
The Best Months to Sow
Grass seed does require a good deal of effort to get right, but there are ways to ensure your energy is not wasted – the most important of which is to choose the right time of year to lay down the seed so that it has the best chance of fully germinating.
It is unlikely that you might be thinking of sowing grass seed in the depths of winter, but many people make the mistake of trying to do it in the middle of summer, which can cause just as many problems. A lack of rain, direct sunlight, and the need to get the surface back in use can all lead to a barren wasteland, rather than the rich, green lawn you hoped for.
The best time of year is the Autumn, when temperatures are still hovering in the low teens, but the air and ground are moist as there is less competition from weeds. However, if you miss the opportunity to sow in autumn, try in mid-spring, but only if you can give the new grass plenty of water.
Fine-tuning Your Grass Seed Blend
Just like wheat, barley or rye, grass is a crop and comes in countless varieties which require different soil types and growing locations to yield the best results.
If you are using the grass for grazing then you need a variety such as Timothy or Ryegrass whereas if you want to sow a lawn you may choose a hard-wearing blend, or one suitable for shaded areas in order to keep your garden looking as good as possible regardless of children, pets, or the Scottish climate.
Finding the right blend of seeds is important, and while there are many pre-mixed blends available, to really get the best results, it is worth investing in a bespoke blend for your requirements.
If you would like to know more about our seed blending service, or if you have burning questions about how to get the best from your pastures or garden, get in touch with our team of friendly experts.
