Can I lay sod or plant grass seed in the fall in Ontario?

Question

Better to lay sod or plant grass seeds either in fall or spring? Best type of seeds or sod available in Ontario.

Answer 1

Yes you can but I would do it soon. I like fall best because the sod or seed will be trying to get established going into a period of relative dampness and cool days. In the spring its trying to get started during days going toward high temps and less moisture. Both are good but you have to do less work in the fall.

Make sure you put down a starter fertilizer before (whether you seed or sod) to stimulate root growth and development.

Answer 2

The garden advice man on the radio here in NY says this is the best time, now in the autumn, because the earth is now as warm as it's going to get for the year, without the undue dryness we sometimes have in June and July. I would think the conditions are reasonably similar in Ontario (LOVE Toronto, btw!)

Answer 3

Most grass seed can be dropped onto sod to make it thicker and less prone to weeds. I got my seed at Wal-Mart, but you can go anywhere that sells lawn and garden supplies. Just follow the directions on the back. It's pretty simple to do and works well. I did it myself to our lawn and it looks much healthier.

Answer 4

The first answerer (catintrepid) said it best... autumn is the best time. Give him (her?) the best answer. I'd ask for the points for myself, but I'm just re-running what he (she?) said.