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When can I put down grass seed? Is it cool enough this Thursday? #754899

Asked June 08, 2021, 5:59 PM EDT

I have a large grass seeding project at my house. I have straw rolls to retain moisture and protect from birds. I have an irrigation system. I understand it is too hot right now to put the seed down. The high this Friday the 11th is 88. Overnight it will get down to 66. Highs the next several days are in the 80's with lows in the 60's. Is that cool enough to go ahead and put down the seed on Friday? I understand those temps are less than idea but if I water for 10 minutes 4-5 times during day will it be good enough?

Hennepin County Minnesota

Expert Response

I said both Thursday and Friday to put down the seed.  It is FRIDAY  that the temps finally drop a bit with a high in the 80’s instead of 90’s.

 

Cheers,

 

Scott Colesworthy

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www.linkedin.com/in/scottcolesworthy

 

From: Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>>
Sent: Tuesday, June 8, 2021 5:00 PM
To: Scott Colesworthy <<personal data hidden>>
Subject: Thank you for your Ask Extension question (#0024830)

 

 

Dear Scott,

Thank you for using Ask Extension. A request for support has been created and a representative will follow-up with you as soon as possible. You can view this question's progress online.

YOUR QUESTION #0024830:

When can I put down grass seed? Is it cool enough this Thursday?

I have a large grass seeding project at my house. I have straw rolls to retain moisture and protect from birds. I have an irrigation system. I understand it is too hot right now to put the seed down. The high this Friday the 11th is 88. Overnight it will get down to 66. Highs the next several days are in the 80's with lows in the 60's. Is that cool enough to go ahead and put down the seed on Friday? I understand those temps are less than idea but if I water for 10 minutes 4-5 times during day will it be good enough?

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The Question Asker Replied June 08, 2021, 6:14 PM EDT
Summer air and soil temperatures are unfavorable for establishing cool season grasses in Minnesota even with the measures you have described.

According to experts at the Scotts company, "Cool-season grasses go dormant and do not grow during hot weather, when the soil temperature goes above 65 degrees F. Since this is common during the peak summer months, planting cool-season grass seed can result in poor seed germination or even seedling death."

However, if you must proceed, the information in the following publication may be useful:

https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/tips_for_seeding_your_lawn_during_summer
An Ask Extension Expert Replied June 09, 2021, 7:38 AM EDT

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