What is dormant grass seeding?
Dormant seeding is the process of sowing seed at a time of year when soil temperatures are not optimal for germination. It's also known as cold seeding. So why would you sow seeds that aren't going to germinate? The idea is that your dormant seed will begin to grow in early spring, as temperatures begin to rise.
As the name suggests, grass seed will lie dormant when the conditions for germination are not met. The grass seed itself won't die if it freezes, it will simply wait until the conditions it needs are right. If soil temperatures are below 9 degrees most grass seed won't be able to grow.
What is the best grass seed for dormant grass seeding?
A high perennial ryegrass content is best for dormant seeding. Our Winter Grass Seed contains 40% high-quality tetraploid amenity perennial ryegrass and 60% diploid amenity perennial ryegrass and will germinate down to soil temperatures as low as just 5 degrees.
From mid-February onwards, we recommend choosing from our full range of lawn seed.
Does dormant grass seeding work?
Dormant seeding can be very effective, but there are some dangers to look out for. If you overseed in winter, you'll need to keep a close eye on the weather. Colder temperatures are ok as grass seed won't die if it freezes. The real concern is if the weather becomes unseasonably warm in the winter. High temperatures may warm the soil enough to allow seedlings to germinate. When cold, winter weather and harsh conditions return, the seedlings may struggle to survive.
As long as seedlings don't shoot during the winter, dormant seeding does work.
When is the best time for dormant grass seeding?
In the UK, overseeding in late November to early December or February through to March is best.
Wait until autumn leaves have fallen, so they can be cleared before you prepare the soil.
Dormant Grass Seeding vs Spring Seeding
Seeding in the winter can actually offer some benefits that you might not expect.
As soil thaws and freezes during winter, it can help to increase seed to soil contact. A layer of snow can help keep seeds in place too. Because soil stays moist for longer during the cool season, you'll need to water less than you would in warmer weather. Grass will begin to grow in bare patches as soon as the conditions are right for it to germinate which can help to protect seedlings from weeds.
Winter seeding is actually more in line with natural processes. Spring seeding is an artificial process, which doesn't allow for a dormant period. Laying dormant is a part of nature's re-seeding cycle, so allowing this to happen is definitely good for your grass. Cold seeding usually gives grass a little longer to mature before being cut, too!
If you put the work in sowing grass seed in winter, you can expect a beautiful, green lawn to grow as the season changes. It's well worth the effort!
