If you’re looking to establish a lush, durable lawn in Oklahoma, knowing when to plant Bermuda grass is the most important step. The optimal timing for planting Bermuda grass in Oklahoma is not a single date, but a specific window dictated by soil temperature and weather patterns.
Planting at the right time gives your grass the best chance to develop a deep, strong root system before facing the stress of winter cold or summer heat. Getting this wrong can lead to a thin lawn, weed invasion, or even total loss of your seedlings. Let’s break down exactly when and how to get your Bermuda grass off to a perfect start.
When to Plant Bermuda Grass in Oklahoma – Optimal Timing for Planting
The golden rule for planting Bermuda grass in Oklahoma is to wait for warm soil. Bermuda is a warm-season grass, meaning it thrives in heat and goes dormant (turns brown) when temperatures drop in the fall.
Understanding the Planting Windows
You have two primary options for establishing Bermuda grass: seeding and sodding. The timing is similar, but sodding offers a bit more flexibility.
- Spring Planting (The Primary Window): This is the ideal time for both seed and sod. Aim for late April through mid-June. The key is to ensure soil temperatures at a 2-inch depth are consistently above 65°F, with 70-75°F being ideal. You can use a soil thermometer to check.
- Late Summer/Early Fall Planting (The Risky Window): Planting from sod can be done up until about early September. However, seeding this late is very risky. The young grass needs a minimum of 60-90 days of strong growth before the first killing frost to survive the winter.
- Why Not Winter or Early Spring? Planting when soil is too cold will result in seed that simply rots or germinates very poorly. Sod laid on cold soil will struggle to root and is suseptible to drying out or heaving from the ground.
The Role of Soil Temperature
Air temperature can be deceiving. Soil warms up much slower than the air in spring. A warm week in March doesn’t mean the soil is ready. Consistently warm nights are what really bring the soil temperature up. You can track local soil temp data online from Oklahoma State University extension services for the most accurate guidance.
Signs Nature Gives You
A good rule of thumb is to watch other plants. When native grasses start turning green and weeds begin to germinate, your soil is warming up. This typically aligns with that late April to early May timeframe across much of Oklahoma.
Step-by-Step Guide to Planting Bermuda Grass
Once you’ve confirmed the timing is right, follow these steps for success.
- Soil Preparation (The Most Critical Step): Remove all existing weeds, grass, and debris. Till the soil to a depth of 4-6 inches to loosen it. This allows roots to penetrate deeply. Grade the area to ensure proper drainage, filling in low spots.
- Soil Testing and Amendment: Take a soil sample to your local county extension office. They will tell you exactly what nutrients your soil lacks. Amend the soil based on the test results, typically by incorporating compost or a starter fertilizer.
- Choosing Seed or Sod: For seed, choose a hulled variety for faster germination. Sod provides an instant lawn but is more expensive. Ensure you get fresh, healthy sod and install it the same day it’s delivered.
- Planting:
- For Seed: Spread the seed evenly using a broadcast spreader. Lightly rake it into the soil (about 1/4 inch deep). Use a roller to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.
- For Sod: Lay pieces tightly together in a staggered brick-like pattern. Roll the entire area to eliminate air pockets and ensure solid contact with the soil beneath.
- Watering: This is non-negotiable. Keep the top inch of soil constantly moist (not soggy) until seeds germinate and seedlings are about 2 inches tall, or until sod is firmly rooted. This may mean light watering 2-3 times a day initially.
- First Mowing: Mow when the new grass reaches about one-third higher than your desired mowing height. For Bermuda, this is often when it hits 2-2.5 inches. Make sure your mower blade is very sharp.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Planting too early: Impatience is the biggest cause of failure. Cold soil equals no germination.
- Planting too late: Especially for seed, not giving grass enough time to mature before frost.
- Poor soil prep: Trying to seed over existing thatch or hard soil. Seed needs contact with loose soil.
- Inconsistent watering: Letting seedlings dry out even once can be fatal. Sod that dries out will shrink and leave gaps.
- Using too much or too little seed: Follow the recommended seeding rate on the bag for best coverage.
Caring for Your New Bermuda Lawn
After establishment, your care routine shifts. Begin a regular mowing schedule, keeping Bermuda at 1-2 inches tall to encourage thick growth. Start fertilizing about 4-6 weeks after planting with a nitrogen-rich fertilizer, following OSU extension recommendations. Be vigilant about weeds, but avoid using weed control products on new grass until it has been mowed at least 3-4 times.
Your new lawn will need deep, infrequent watering to encourage those roots to grow down. About 1 inch of water per week, including rainfall, is a good goal. A strong, deep root system is what makes Bermuda grass so drought-tolerant and resilient in the Oklahoma climate.
FAQ Section
Can I plant Bermuda grass in Oklahoma in the fall?
Sod can be laid in early fall (up to early September) with careful watering. Seeding in the fall is generally not recommended north of I-40 due to the high risk of winter kill. In southern Oklahoma, late summer seeding is more feasible but still risky.
What is the best month to plant Bermuda grass in Oklahoma?
May is often considered the ideal month statewide. Soil temperatures are reliably warm, and there’s plenty of growing season ahead. Late April can work in southern regions, and June is still very effective.
How long does Bermuda grass seed take to germinate in Oklahoma?
With hulled seed and proper soil temps (70+°F), you can see germination in as little as 7-10 days. Unhulled seed or cooler soil can slow this to 14-21 days. Keep the area moist throughout this entire period.
Is it too late to plant Bermuda grass in July?
For seeding, July is usually to late for most of Oklahoma due to intense heat and increased irrigation demands. Sodding in July is possible but requires extreme diligence with daily, sometimes twice-daily, watering to prevent the sod and soil underneath from drying out completely.
Should I plant Bermuda grass from seed or sod?
Seed is much more cost-effective for large areas and offers more variety choices. Sod gives you an “instant” lawn, provides better erosion control on slopes, and can be laid later in the season than seed. The choice depends on your budget, timeline, and the size of your lawn.
By following this guide and focusing on that crucial optimal timing window, you’ll give your Bermuda grass the foundation it needs to thrive for years to come. A little patience in the spring leads to a tough, beautiful lawn that can handle Oklahoma’s summers with ease. Remember, the work you put into preparation and timing is the real secret to a successful lawn.