When Should I Plant Bermuda Grass Seed In Texas

If you’re a Texas lawn enthusiast, timing is everything for a successful turf. Knowing when to plant Bermuda grass seed in Texas is the single most important step you can take. Get it right, and you’ll be rewarded with a thick, resilient lawn that can handle our heat and sun. Get it wrong, and you’ll be fighting an uphill battle against poor germination and weak grass.

This guide cuts straight to the chase. We’ll cover the optimal windows for planting across Texas’s major regions, the soil prep you need, and the aftercare that ensures your seed turns into a lush carpet. Let’s get your lawn started on the right foot.

The short answer is late spring through early summer. Bermuda grass is a warm-season grass, which means it needs warm soil and consistent warmth to germinate and grow strong. Planting during this window gives the young grass the entire growing season to establish deep roots before winter dormancy.

Optimal Planting Windows by Texas Region

Texas is a big state with varied climates, so the ideal timing shifts a bit depending on where you live.

North Texas (Dallas-Fort Worth, Lubbock, Amarillo): Aim for mid-May to late June. Wait until night temperatures reliably stay above 65°F and all danger of a late frost has passed. The soil needs to be genuinely warm.
Central Texas (Austin, San Antonio, Waco): The prime window here is early May to mid-June. This region warms up a little sooner than the north, giving you a slightly earlier start.
South Texas & Gulf Coast (Houston, Corpus Christi, Brownsville): You can start earliest here, from late April to early June. The long, hot growing season is a major advantage, but be prepared for more frequent watering to combat extreme heat after planting.
West Texas (El Paso, Midland): Follow a similar timeline to North Texas, around mid-May to June. The dry air means irrigation is absolutely critical from day one.

A good rule of thumb for all regions is to watch the weather, not just the calendar. Soil temperature at a 2-inch depth should be consistently at least 65°F, with 70-75°F being ideal for fastest germination.

Why Timing is So Critical

Planting Bermuda seed at the wrong time leads to common failures. Planting too early in cool, damp soil causes the seed to rot or germinate poorly. The seedlings that do emerge will be stunted and vulnerable.

Planting too late in the summer gives the grass less time to mature before cooler fall weather slows growth. It won’t develop the deep root system needed to survive winter and bounce back strong next spring. Getting the timing right sets the stage for everything that follows.

Preparing Your Site for Seeding

Proper site preparation is non-negotiable. Skipping this step is a sure way to waste time, money, and effort. Follow these steps in order.

Clear the Area: Remove all debris, rocks, and existing weeds or grass. For an existing lawn you’re renovating, you’ll need to use a sod cutter or non-selective herbicide to completely kill the old vegetation. Till or rake the dead material away.
Test and Amend the Soil: It’s highly recommended to get a soil test from your local county extension office. It will tell you exactly what your soil needs. Generally, Bermuda grass prefers a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Amend the soil based on your test results, incorporating any recommended lime or sulfur.
Loosen and Level the Soil: Till the top 4 to 6 inches of soil to break up compaction. This allows roots to penetrate easily. Rake the area thoroughly to create a smooth, level surface. Fill in low spots and knock down high spots. A level lawn prevents water pooling and ensures an even cut later.
Add Starter Fertilizer: Apply a high-phosphorus starter fertilizer (look for a ratio like 10-20-10) according to the bag’s instructions. Phosphorus is key for encouraging strong root development in new seedlings. Work it lightly into the top inch of soil.

Choosing the Right Bermuda Grass Seed

Not all Bermuda grass is the same. For seeding, you’ll be using “common” Bermuda grass or an improved seeded variety. Sod is often a hybrid Bermuda that doesn’t produce viable seed. Look for fresh, high-quality seed from a reputable supplier. Improved seeded varieties like ‘Riviera’ or ‘Yukon’ may offer better cold tolerance or density, which is a plus in North Texas.

The Seeding Process Step-by-Step

Calculate Seed Needed: You’ll typically need 1 to 1.5 pounds of Bermuda grass seed per 1,000 square feet. Check your specific seed label for its recommended rate.
Use a Spreader: For even coverage, use a broadcast or drop spreader. Calibrate it according to the instructions to avoid using to much or too little seed. Split your total seed amount in half.
Sow the Seed: Apply the first half of the seed walking in one direction (north-south). Then apply the second half walking perpendicular (east-west). This cross-hatching technique ensures even distribution and avoids streaky results.
Rake and Roll: Lightly rake the area to cover the seeds with about 1/8 to 1/4 inch of soil. Good seed-to-soil contact is essential for germination. Then, use a light lawn roller (you can fill it halfway with water) to gently press the seeds into the soil. Don’t bury them to deep.

Critical Post-Planting Care

Your job isn’t over after seeding. The first few weeks require consistent attention.

Watering: This is the most important task. Keep the top 1-2 inches of soil constantly moist, but not soggy, until germination (usually 7-14 days). This may mean light watering 2-3 times a day for very short periods. Once grass sprouts, gradually reduce frequency but increase depth to encourage deeper rooting.
First Mowing: Mow for the first time when the grass reaches about 2 inches tall. Never remove more than one-third of the blade height at once. Ensure your mower blade is very sharp to avoid tearing the tender seedlings.
Weed Control: Be patient. You cannot use any weed control herbicides on a newly seeded lawn until after you’ve mowed it at least 3-4 times. Hand-pull any early weeds that appear to prevent competition.
Follow-Up Fertilizing: About 4-6 weeks after germination, apply a balanced fertilizer to support continued growth. Stick to a regular feeding schedule throughout the growing season for best results.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Planting when soil is still cold or weather is to unpredictable.
Skimping on site preparation. Weeds and old grass will outcompete your seedlings.
Letting the seedbed dry out even once during the germination period.
Using old or low-quality seed with poor germination rates.
Applying a weed-and-feed or other herbicide too soon after seeding.

FAQ: Planting Bermuda Grass in Texas

Can I plant Bermuda grass seed in the fall in Texas?

It is not recommended. Fall soil temperatures are cooling, which slows germination and growth. The young grass will not have enough time to establish the robust root system needed to survive the winter. Spring/summer planting is vastly superior.

What is the best month to plant Bermuda grass in Central Texas?

Early May is generally a reliable start time for Central Texas. The key is ensuring soil temperatures are warm enough, so early May to mid-June is your safest bet.

How long does it take for Bermuda seed to germinate?

Under ideal conditions (warm, moist soil), Bermuda grass seed will begin to germinate in 7 to 10 days. Full lawn coverage may take 3 to 6 weeks depending on conditions and care.

Can I overseed existing Bermuda with new seed?

Yes, overseeding thin Bermuda lawns is a great practice. The best time is during the same optimal spring/summer window. Mow your existing lawn very short and rake vigorously to dethatch and expose soil before applying seed. This gives the new seed a chance to reach the soil.

Should I use straw to cover newly planted Bermuda seed?

It’s usually not necessary for Bermuda grass and can sometimes introduce weed seeds. In areas prone to erosion or on slopes, a very thin layer of weed-free straw can help, but it shouldn’t smother the seed. Your goal is good seed-to-soil contact, not a thick mulch layer.

By following these guidelines and hitting that crucial planting window, you give your Bermuda grass seed the absolute best chance to thrive. The result will be a tough, beautiful lawn that stands up to the Texas heat and provides a great space for your family for years to come. Remember, the effort you put in during the planting phase pays off every time you look at your healthy, green yard.