Getting your timing right is the most important step for a successful lawn. If you’re wondering when to plant bermuda grass seed in oklahoma, you’re already on the right track. The Sooner State’s climate demands specific timing to ensure your seeds germinate well and establish a strong, durable turf.
Planting at the optimal time gives your grass a fighting chance against weeds and the stress of Oklahoma’s weather. Let’s break down the best schedule and the steps you need to follow for a lush, green lawn.
When to Plant Bermuda Grass Seed in Oklahoma
The absolute best time to plant bermuda grass seed in Oklahoma is from late spring through early summer. You need to aim for a period when soil temperatures are consistently warm.
Here’s the ideal timing window:
- Optimal Window: Mid-May to late June.
- Key Indicator: Soil temperatures at a 1-inch depth should be consistently at or above 65°F, with 70°F being ideal.
- Goal: Seeds need warm soil to sprout quickly and seedlings need a long, warm growing season to develop deep roots before winter.
Planting to late in the fall is a common mistake. Young bermuda grass seedlings are very sensitive to frost. If they don’t have at least 90 days of good growing weather before the first expected frost, they likely won’t survive the winter.
Why This Timing is Non-Negotiable
Bermuda grass is a warm-season grass. It thrives in heat and goes dormant (turns brown) after the first hard frost. Its germination and growth are entirely driven by soil warmth.
- Early Spring Planting Risk: Soil is still to cool. Seeds will either not germinate or will do so very slowly, allowing weeds to take over.
- Late Summer/Fall Planting Risk: Seedlings won’t have enough time to mature. Their root systems will be shallow, making them vulnerable to winterkill.
Checking Your Local Soil Temperature
Don’t just rely on the calendar. Use a soil thermometer to check. You can also reference online resources from Oklahoma State University Extension, which often track soil temps.
Wait until morning lows are reliably above 60°F. This usually correlates well with the right soil temperature for seeding.
Preparing Your Site for Seeding Success
Proper preparation is 80% of the job. Skipping this step leads to poor germination and a weak lawn.
Step 1: Clear and Till
Remove all existing weeds, grass, and debris. For large areas, consider using a non-selective herbicide, following label instructions carefully. Once vegetation is dead, till the soil to a depth of 4 to 6 inches. This breaks up compaction and gives roots room to spread.
Step 2: Grade and Level
Rake the area to create a smooth, level surface. Ensure you have a slight slope away from your home’s foundation for drainage. Fill in low spots to prevent puddling, which can drown new seeds.
Step 3: Soil Test and Amend
This is a step many gardeners skip, but it’s crucial. Get a soil test kit from your county extension office. It will tell you exactly what your soil needs.
- pH: Bermuda grass prefers a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Oklahoma soils often lean alkaline, so you might need to add sulfur to lower pH.
- Nutrients: Based on the test, add the recommended starter fertilizer. A balanced fertilizer high in phosphorus (the middle number) is great for root development.
Step 4: Final Seedbed Preparation
Rake the soil one final time to create a fine, crumbly texture. Your seedbed should be firm but not hard-packed. You can lightly roll the area or walk over it to settle it.
The Seeding Process: Step-by-Step
1. Choosing the Right Seed
Select a high-quality, hulled bermuda grass seed variety suited for Oklahoma. Common improved varieties include ‘Riviera’ or ‘Yukon’. Hulled seeds germinate faster than unhulled. Check the seed tag for purity and germination rate.
2. Seeding Rate and Method
Follow the recommended rate on the bag, usually 1 to 2 pounds per 1,000 square feet. Using to little seed leaves room for weeds. Using to much creates overcrowding and weak grass.
- Split your seed in half.
- Sow one half walking in one direction (north-south).
- Sow the second half walking perpendicular (east-west). This ensures even coverage.
- For small areas, sow by hand. For large lawns, use a broadcast or drop spreader.
3. Covering the Seed
Lightly rake the seeded area so that seeds are covered by about 1/8 to 1/4 inch of soil. Do not bury them to deep. You can also spread a very thin layer of weed-free straw or peat moss to help retain moisture.
4. The First Watering
Water immediately after seeding. Use a fine mist to gently moisten the soil to a depth of 2-3 inches without causing erosion or washing seeds away.
Post-Planting Care: The Crucial First Weeks
Watering Schedule
Consistent moisture is critical until seeds germinate and establish.
- Weeks 1-2: Water lightly 2-3 times daily to keep the top inch of soil constantly moist, but not soggy.
- Weeks 3-4: As seedlings emerge, reduce frequency but increase depth. Water once a day, encouraging roots to grow downward.
- After 1 Month: Transition to deeper, less frequent watering. Aim for 1 inch of water per week, including rainfall.
First Mowing and Fertilizing
Wait until the grass reaches about 3 inches tall for the first mow. Never remove more than one-third of the blade height at a time. Ensure your mower blade is sharp.
Apply your first post-germination fertilizer about 4-6 weeks after seeding, using a balanced lawn fertilizer. Always follow product rates to avoid burning the young grass.
Weed Control
Avoid using any weed pre-emergents or post-emergents until after you have mowed the new lawn at least 3-4 times. Most herbicides can damage or kill tender bermuda grass seedlings. Hand-pull weeds initially.
Common Seeding Mistakes to Avoid in Oklahoma
- Planting Too Early: Impatience leads to poor germination in cool soil.
- Inadequate Soil Prep: Seeds struggle in hard, unamended soil.
- Poor Watering Habits: Letting seeds dry out kills them. Overwatering causes fungus and washout.
- Using Old or Low-Quality Seed: This results in thin stands and poor germination rates.
- Mowing Too Soon or Too Short: This stresses seedlings and weakens the entire lawn.
FAQ: Bermuda Grass in Oklahoma
Q: Can I plant bermuda grass seed in the fall in Oklahoma?
A: It is not recommended. The risk of an early frost killing the immature seedlings is very high. For fall lawn work, focus on fertilization and weed control for established lawns.
Q: What’s the difference between seeding and sodding bermuda grass?
A: Seeding is more cost-effective for large areas but requires more time and care. Sodding gives you an instant lawn but is more expensive. Both should be done in the same warm-season window.
Q: How long does it take for bermuda grass seed to germinate?
A> With hulled seed and proper soil warmth (70°F+), you can see germination in 7-14 days. Cooler soils will slow this process significantly.
Q: My new seedlings look thin. Is this normal?
A> Yes, initially. Bermuda grass spreads through runners (stolons and rhizomes). It will fill in bare spots over its first growing season as it matures. Avoid the temptation to overseed again immediately.
Q: When should I plant bermuda grass in central Oklahoma versus the panhandle?
A: The panhandle may need to wait until late May or early June due to cooler spring temps, while southern Oklahoma can sometimes start in early May. Always use soil temperature as your primary guide, not just the date.
By following this timing and these steps, you give your bermuda grass seed the best possible start. The result will be a tough, resilient lawn that can handle Oklahoma’s hot summers and look great for years to come. Remember, patience and preparation in the seeding phase pay off with a healthier lawn that requires less maintenance down the road.