When to Plant Grass Seed in Massachusetts
When you plant grass seed will have a direct effect on your success. At Jonathan Green, we recommend planting cool-season grasses in Massachusetts in early fall to achieve a healthy, beautiful lawn.
The Jonathan Green name has represented high-quality grass seed, innovation, integrity, determination, and a commitment to excellence since 1881. Today, six generations later, we remain committed to producing superior lawn and garden products.
We are a leading supplier of grass seed, organics, and turf products to both the independent retailer and professional lawn care markets and breed genetically superior turf grasses in our own grass seed breeding program in Oregon. Our genetically superior grass seed and soil food products will transform your lawn and help it to thrive.
The Right Time to Plant Grass Seed
In Massachusetts, early fall is the best time to plant grass seed. Soil temperatures are still warm at this time of year, which is necessary for optimum seed germination, and cooler air temperatures are better for grass growth. Adequate sunlight will enable the new grass to thrive and become established before colder winter weather arrives, and there will be fewer weeds for the grass to compete with.
The second-best time for planting cool-season grass seed in Massachusetts is spring (mid-March to late April). Spring sunshine and rain contribute to strong grass growth, but be sure that daytime temperatures have warmed up 60° to 70°F before you start.
Tips for Planting & Fertilizing
Whether you decide to plant in spring or fall, we recommend our Black Beauty® Ultra grass seed mixture. It is genetically superior to other grass seed, is heat and drought resistant and grows roots up to four feet deep. It possesses a rich dark green color and has a waxy leaf coating (like an apple) that helps it seal in moisture.
If you have not already invested in a lawn spreader, it is something you should consider, especially if you have a large lawn. Spreading grass seed by hand can result in uneven application and leave some spots bare while others may be planted too heavily. Not only can a spreader be used for applying grass seed, but it is also great to spread fertilizer and our Melt-A-Way ice melter on your icy walkways and driveway in the winter.
Consider the New American Lawn Standard Rotary Spreader from Jonathan Green which features pneumatic tires and a grip handle so you don’t have to bend over when pushing the spreader. Both of these features make for easy and accurate applications.
We also recommend using a fertilizer that is specially made for newly seeded grass. Generic fertilizers or weed and feed treatments could have chemicals that would prevent proper seed germination. Jonathan Green has put decades of innovation and technology into creating our Veri-Green Lawn Food for Seeding and Sodding. The formula promotes fast seed germination and works to build a vigorous root system.
Mentioned Products
If you intend to plant grass seed in Massachusetts and need advice or tips on when and how to do it properly, visit us online at JonathanGreen.com or locate your nearest independent retail store where their home and garden professionals will answer any questions you may have.