When To Plant Bermuda Grass In Virginia

Getting your Bermuda grass planting schedule right is the key to a thick, resilient lawn in Virginia. Knowing exactly when to plant Bermuda grass in Virginia, especially during the spring, makes all the difference between success and struggle.

This warm-season grass thrives on heat. Plant it too early, and a late frost can wipe it out. Plant it too late, and it won’t have time to establish strong roots before summer stress hits. Let’s break down the optimal springtime schedule so you can get it perfect.

For spring planting, your window is relatively narrow. The golden rule is to wait until the soil has fully warmed. Bermuda grass seed needs consistent soil temperatures to germinate properly.

For most of Virginia, the ideal time to plant Bermuda grass is from late April through mid-June. This timeframe ensures the soil is warm enough and the danger of a killing frost has passed.

Why Soil Temperature is Your Best Guide

Air temperatures can be deceptive. A warm week in March might tempt you, but the soil below can still be cold. Bermuda grass seed germinates best when soil temperatures at a 1-inch depth are consistently above 65°F, with 70-75°F being ideal.

You can use a simple soil thermometer to check. Take measurements for several consecutive days in the morning. If you don’t have one, a reliable local indicator is the bloom of late spring flowers, like irises.

Regional Variations Across Virginia

Virginia’s climate varies from the coastal plains to the Piedmont and mountains. Your specific location will fine-tune your schedule.

Coastal & Southeastern Virginia (Zones 7b-8a): You can start earliest, often in late April. The warmer coastal soils heat up faster.
Piedmont & Central Virginia (Zones 7a-7b): Aim for early to mid-May. Wait for stable warmth after the last frost date.
Western & Mountain Regions (Zones 6b-7a): Hold off until late May or even early June. These areas have a shorter warm season and cooler springs.

Spring vs. Fall Planting

While spring is common, late summer to early fall is actually the best time for seeding Bermuda grass in Virginia. Planting 6-8 weeks before the first fall frost allows for establishment without summer weed competition. However, spring planting is perfectly successful if timed correctly.

Preparing for Spring Planting

Good preparation is 80% of the job. Starting with a clean, level, and nutrient-rich seedbed gives your grass the best launch.

Step 1: Clear and Till

Remove all existing weeds, grass, rocks, and debris. For small areas, a garden rake and elbow grease works. For larger lawns, consider using a non-selective herbicide (followed by the required waiting period) or renting a sod cutter. Till the soil to a depth of 4-6 inches to loosen it.

Step 2: Test and Amend the Soil

This step is often skipped, but it’s crucial. Get a soil test from your local Virginia Cooperative Extension office. It will tell you exactly what your soil needs.

Adjust pH: Bermuda grass prefers a pH of 6.0 to 6.5. Add lime to raise pH or sulfur to lower it, as the test recommends.
Add Nutrients: Based on your test, incorporate a starter fertilizer high in phosphorus to promote root growth.

Step 3: Level and Firm

Rake the area smooth, breaking up large clods. Fill in low spots and gently compact the soil with a lawn roller or by walking over it. You want a firm, but not hard, surface so seeds have good soil contact.

The Planting Process

Now for the main event. Follow these steps for even coverage and good germination.

Choose Quality Seed: Select a fresh, high-quality Bermuda grass variety suited for Virginia. Common types include ‘Celebration’, ‘Princess 77’, or ‘Yukon’.
Calculate Seed: You’ll need about 1-2 pounds of seed per 1,000 square feet. Check the bag’s coverage rate.
Use a Spreader: For even distribution, use a broadcast or drop spreader. Sow half the seed walking north-south, and the other half walking east-west.
Rake Lightly: Gently rake the area so no more than 1/4 inch of soil covers the seeds. Bermuda grass seed needs light to germinate, so don’t bury it to deep.
Roll Again: Lightly roll the area once more to ensure excellent seed-to-soil contact, which is vital for moisture uptake.

Post-Planting Care: The First 8 Weeks

Your work after planting determines your lawn’s future. Consistent moisture is non-negotiable.

Watering Schedule

Weeks 1-2: Water lightly 2-3 times daily to keep the top 1/2 inch of soil consistently moist, but not soggy. Avoid puddles.
Weeks 3-4: As seedlings emerge, reduce frequency to once per day, applying about 1/4 inch of water.
Weeks 5-8: Transition to deeper, less frequent watering. Water 2-3 times per week, applying about 1/2 inch each time to encourage deep rooting.

First Mowing and Fertilizing

Wait until the grass reaches about 2 inches tall for the first mow. Never remove more than 1/3 of the blade height. Set your mower to 1-1.5 inches for Bermuda.

Apply your first post-establishment fertilizer about 4-6 weeks after seeding, using a balanced fertilizer. Always follow product label instructions to avoid burning you’re new grass.

Weed Control

You will see weeds—they germinate fast. Do not use any weed control herbicides until after you have mowed the new grass at least 3-4 times. Early hand-pulling is safest.

Common Spring Planting Mistakes to Avoid

Planting Too Early: Impatience is the biggest cause of failure. Cold, wet soil leads to rotten seed.
Poor Soil Prep: Skipping soil testing or leveling leads to thin, uneven grass and drainage problems.
Inconsistent Watering: Letting seeds dry out even once during germination can kill them. Setting up a temporary sprinkler system helps.
Using Old or Cheap Seed: Low germination rates mean a thin lawn. Invest in fresh, quality seed from a reputable brand.

FAQ: Planting Bermuda Grass in Virginia

Can I plant Bermuda grass in early April in Virginia?

It’s generally to risky for most of the state. Soil temperatures are usually to cold, leading to poor germination. Late April is the earliest recommended, and only for coastal areas.

Is sod a better option than seed for spring?

Sod gives you an instant lawn and can be laid earlier in spring than seed can be sown, as it’s more established. However, it is significantly more expensive than seeding.

What if I miss the spring planting window?

If it’s already late June or July, it’s better to wait for the optimal late summer planting window (August to early September) or wait until next spring. High summer heat stresses young seedlings.

How long does it take for Bermuda grass seed to germinate?

Under ideal warm conditions (70+°F soil), Bermuda grass seed typically germinates in 7-14 days. Cooler soils will slow this down considerably.

Can I overseed existing Bermuda with new seed in spring?

Yes, spring is a good time to overseed to fill in bare spots. Ensure good seed-to-soil contact by dethatching or aerating first, and follow the same watering schedule.

By following this Virginia-specific schedule and tips, you’ll give your Bermuda grass the strongest possible start. Paying attention to soil warmth, preparing carefully, and committing to consistent aftercare will result in a dense, green lawn ready to handle the summer heat. Remember, patience in the spring leads to a beautiful lawn all summer long.