At what temperature can you sow grass?
Historically, the ideal temperature for sowing grass for sports depended on the type of grass you’re using and your location. As a general rule of thumb, cool-season grasses thrive in cooler climates and prefer temperatures between 15-25°C (59-77°F) for germination
Warm-season grasses germinate best in temperatures between 22-32°C (72-90°F).
However, there are some exceptions:
• Dormant seeding: You can sow some cool-season grasses in late fall or winter when the soil temperatures are below 9°C (48°F). The seeds will lie dormant until the spring when the weather warms up and conditions are more favorable for germination.
• Special grass mixes: Some grass mixes are specially formulated to germinate at lower temperatures to as low as 4°C (39°F).
Here are some additional factors to consider when sowing grass for sports:
• Soil temperature: The soil temperature is more important than the air temperature. Make sure the soil temperature is consistently within the ideal range for the type of grass you’re using.
• Weather conditions: Avoid sowing grass during periods of extreme heat, drought, or heavy rain.
• Local climate: Consult with a local nursery or turf expert for advice on the best time to sow grass in your area.
By following these guidelines, you can increase your chances of successfully establishing a healthy and durable sports turf.
The moment to start sowing at the beginning of the year, can be determined by the T200°-factor: the moment the temperatures measured for all days since the start of the year, exceeds the 200 degrees Celsius.