If you’re planning a lush, durable lawn in Oklahoma, knowing when is the best time to plant bermuda grass in oklahoma is your first step to success. This warm-season grass thrives in our heat, but timing its planting correctly is what makes the difference between a good lawn and a great one.
Planting at the right moment gives the grass a strong start. It allows the roots to establish before facing extreme weather. Let’s look at the ideal schedule and how to get your bermuda grass off to a perfect start.
When Is The Best Time To Plant Bermuda Grass In Oklahoma
The absolute best time to plant bermuda grass in Oklahoma is from late spring through early summer. Aim for the period between mid-May and late June. During this window, soil temperatures consistently reach the 65°F to 70°F range that bermuda grass seeds and sprigs need for germination and growth.
This timing uses the long, hot Oklahoma summer to your advantage. The grass has several months of reliable warmth to grow deep roots and spread. It becomes strong enough to survive its first winter and bounce back vigorously the next spring.
Why This Season Works Best
Bermuda grass is a sun-loving plant that grows actively in warm weather. Planting in late spring aligns with its natural growth cycle.
- Warm Soil: Seeds won’t germinate in cool soil. Waiting until May ensures the ground is warm enough.
- Long Growing Season: Planting by June gives you 3-4 months of prime growth before cooler fall temperatures slow things down.
- Reduced Weed Competition: Many weeds are already up in early spring. A later planting can help your bermuda outpace new weed seedlings.
The Risks of Planting Too Early or Too Late
Missing the optimal window can lead to problems. Here’s what can happen.
Planting too early in April or early May risks a late frost or cold snap. This can kill young seedlings or sprigs. The soil may also be to cool, leading to poor germination and patchy growth. You’ll waste seed and effort.
Planting too late in July or August is also risky. While the heat is good, the grass won’t have enough time to mature before fall. A young, shallow-rooted lawn is vulnerable to winter kill. It may not survive its first cold season, especially in northern Oklahoma counties.
Considering Your Oklahoma Region
Oklahoma’s climate varies from east to west. This can shift your timing slightly.
- Central & Western OK: Stick to the core late May to June window. These areas have a drier, more consistant heat ideal for bermuda.
- Eastern OK: You can sometimes plant a little earlier in May, as humidity is higher. But still avoid early spring frosts.
- Southern OK: The longer warm season allows for a slightly wider window, from early May to early July.
- Northern OK: Be more strict with timing. Aim for June to ensure soil warmth and maximize growing days before frost.
Soil Temperature: Your Best Guide
Don’t just watch the calendar; watch the thermometer. Soil temperature is the most reliable indicator. You can use a simple soil thermometer from a garden center.
Measure the temperature at a 2-inch depth in the morning. Wait until it holds steady at 65°F or higher for several days. This is your green light to plant. This method takes the guesswork out of timing for any given year.
How to Plant Bermuda Grass in Oklahoma
Once you’ve hit the right time, proper planting technique is key. Follow these steps for a successful establishment.
Step 1: Prepare the Soil
Good soil prep is non-negotiable. Start by removing all existing weeds, grass, and debris. Till the soil to a depth of 4 to 6 inches to loosen it. This allows roots to penetrate easily.
Test your soil’s pH. Bermuda grass prefers a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Your local OSU extension office can help with testing. Amend the soil based on the results, often adding lime to raise pH or sulfur to lower it.
Step 2: Level and Grade
Rake the area smooth, creating a gentle slope away from your home’s foundation for drainage. Remove large rocks and break up big clods of soil. A firm, level seedbed prevents water pooling and ensures even growth.
Step 3: Choose Your Planting Method
You can plant bermuda grass from seed, sprigs, or sod. Seed is the most economical for large areas. Sprigs (stems with nodes) are good for establishing hybrid varieties. Sod gives you an instant lawn but is more costly.
Step 4: Planting and Seeding
- For Seed: Use a broadcast or drop spreader. Sow about 1 to 2 pounds of hulled bermuda seed per 1,000 square feet. Lightly rake the seed into the soil, no deeper than ¼ inch. Use a roller to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.
- For Sprigs: Plant them 6 to 12 inches apart in rows or randomly. Press or lightly bury them into moist soil, leaving a portion exposed.
Step 5: Initial Watering and Care
Water immediately after planting. Keep the top inch of soil constantly moist (not soggy) for the first 2-3 weeks. This is critical for germination and sprig survival. Water lightly 2-3 times a day if needed to prevent drying out.
Caring for Your New Bermuda Lawn
After establishment, adjust your care to build a tough lawn.
- First Mow: Wait until grass reaches about 2 inches tall. Never remove more than one-third of the blade height at once.
- Watering: Transition to deeper, less frequent watering to encourage deep roots. Aim for about 1 inch of water per week.
- First Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer about 4-6 weeks after planting, when the grass is actively growing and has been mowed a few times.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with good timing, errors can set you back. Here’s what to watch for.
- Planting in shade: Bermuda needs full sun—at least 6-8 hours daily. It will thin and struggle in shade.
- Overwatering early: This can wash away seed or cause disease. Consistent, light moisture is the goal.
- Using to much fertilizer at planting: This can burn tender new roots. Wait until the lawn is established.
- Ignoring soil prep: Trying to plant into hard, unprepared soil is the most common reason for failure.
FAQ: Planting Bermuda Grass in Oklahoma
Can I plant Bermuda grass in Oklahoma in the fall?
It is not recommended. Fall planting doesn’t give the grass enough time to develop the deep root system needed to survive winter. The young grass will likely die off when frost arrives.
What is the best Bermuda grass for Oklahoma?
For seed, ‘Riviera’ and ‘Yukon’ are excellent cold-tolerant varieties suited for Oklahoma. For sod or sprigs, hybrid varieties like ‘Tifway 419’ are very popular and durable, but they must be planted vegetatively.
How long does Bermuda seed take to germinate?
With proper soil warmth and moisture, hulled Bermuda grass seed typically germinates in 7 to 14 days. Unhulled seed takes longer, around 14-21 days. Patience is key during this period.
Is it too late to plant in July?
July is pushing it, especially in northern OK. In southern Oklahoma, early July planting might succeed if you are diligent with watering. However, the risk of winter injury increases significantly with later plantings.
Should I use a starter fertilizer?
A starter fertilizer high in phosphorus can be beneficial when planting seed or sprigs. However, have your soil tested first. Oklahoma soils often have adequate phosphorus, and adding more isn’t always necessary or environmentally sound.
By following this guide and hitting that crucial late spring to early summer window, you give your bermuda grass lawn the best possible foundation. With proper planting and care, you’ll enjoy a resilient, green turf that handles the Oklahoma heat and brings beauty to your home for years to come. Remember, the little effort you put in at the start pays off every time you step outside.