Time: The best time to seed a lawn in northern Ohio is between August 15 and September 15. In central and southern Ohio, the entire month of September is acceptable. Lawns seeded later in the fall may fail because the seedling turf has insufficient growth to survive the winter.

If seeding cannot be done by October 15 in northern Ohio or before October 30 in southern Ohio, postpone the job until spring. The earlier in the spring a seeding can be made (preferably March) the better the chances for success. Winter seedings (dormant seeding) made after November 15 in northern Ohio and after December 1 in southern Ohio will not germinate until the following spring.

Unfortunately, all lawns cannot be seeded during the recommended late summer/early fall period. Besides the summer survival risks associated with spring and winter seedings, these seedings also will be susceptible to heavy infestations of summer annual weeds including crabgrass, foxtail, barnyardgrass, pigweed and many others. Infestations of these summer annual weeds are greatly reduced in successful early fall seedings, since a good density develops before the weed seeds germinate the following spring.

Rate: Most people sow much more seed than is needed. The higher rate will provide a more dense turf during the establishment period but does not substitute for other recommended practices in establishing the lawn. Normally, 15 to 20 seeds/square inch is adequate.

High-quality lawns can be established from either seeding or sodding the prepared site. If seeding is the preferred method, be certain the seed used is free of weed seeds and of high quality and germination. By law, all seed sold in Ohio must be accurately labeled specifying contents of the package, percent germination of the specie(s) and data on which the testing was performed. Emphasis should be placed on obtaining the most desired species and the highest germination rates. Ohio law allows Kentucky bluegrass seed to contain some seed of annual bluegrass (Poa annua) and bentgrass, both of which can be serious weeds. It is possible to obtain seed free of those unwanted grasses if the buyer is persistent and willing to pay a premium price.

Sodding is an immediate resolution to lawn establishment. However, the aesthetics of a sodded lawn may be good or poor depending on the quality of the sod and the skill with which it is installed. Sod has an advantage on steep terraces and areas subject to unusual abuse such as between the walk and the street. Another advantage of sodding is that it may be successfully done anytime the ground is not frozen, if properly watered.

Potential home buyers should consider the existing sod or turf around a home before they buy. If grass has failed because of shade, poor soil, or turfgrass pests, sod will not correct this situation. It also will fail unless the cause for failure is corrected. Sod does not eliminate the need for good soil, adequate fertilizer, proper management, and pest control.

Only good quality sod from reputable dealers should be purchased for the home lawn. Information on the grass species and cultivar composition of the sod should be determined prior to purchase to ensure its acceptability. The sod should be of uniform density and free from broadleaf weeds, crabgrass, quackgrass, bentgrass and other lawn weeds.