When to seed grass in Greene County, Ohio

Do this in September

• Mowing

  Mow at 3 to 4 inches, twice a week if it's growing fast.

  Buckeye Turf suggests mowing twice a week in spring and fall when growth is quick. [1]

• Seeding

  Seed now. This is the best window.

  OSU's fact sheet says that in central and southern Ohio, any time in September is acceptable for seeding. Lawns seeded later in fall may not grow enough to survive winter. Germination is best with 2-inch soil at 50 to 65°F. [2][3][4]

  This depends on soil temperature, not the date.

  This is the nearest Ohio State weather station with live soil temperatures, just north of Greene County. It reports soil temperature at 5 cm (about 2 inches), the depth OSU uses for crabgrass timing.

  Check today's reading at the OSU CFAES Weather System, Western Agricultural Research Station (South Charleston, Clark County)

• Fertilizer

  Feed in September and October.

  OSU's turf scientists say most of the year's nitrogen should go down in September and October, when grass is growing most. OSU's rule of thumb for an application is 1 pound of actual nitrogen per 1,000 square feet. Skip it if the lawn is still drought dormant. [5][6][2]

• Grubs and weeds

  Early to mid September is the time for grub control.

  OSU's September 2026 turf update says second-stage grubs are present and early to mid September is the time for grub control. Treat only if you find damaging numbers. [7][2]

• Watering

  Keep new seed moist; water established grass when it wilts.

  Water early in the morning. OSU notes that watering in the evening can increase disease. [8][9]

• Aeration

  Core aerate, especially before overseeding.

  OSU says aeration is beneficial alongside seeding, and fall is one of the two usual times for it in Ohio. [10][2]