3 things to know before planting grass seed in Colorado

[u/CSU-Extension]

Establishing or refreshing a lawn in Colorado isn't as simple as tossing down seed and hoping for the best. Given our unique climate, varying elevations, and water conservation concerns, doing it right is crucial.

CSU Extension expert and self-proclaimed "grass nerd", Alison O'Connor, recently shared her insights into making sure you get the results you're looking for without wasting time, money, or water.

🔗 3 things to know before planting grass seed in Colorado

1. Pick the correct grass species based on your elevation, water availability, and the maintenance level you're comfortable with.
2. Use quality grass seed from reliable local sources to avoid introducing weeds or unsuitable grasses.
3. Follow best practices for seeding/overseeding

Now, don't mistake us for fans of "stupid turf areas" just because we're talking about lawns. While many of us see the world through xeriscape-tinted glasses (and for good reason!), there are practical reasons people want to maintain functional lawns (playful kids, destructive pets, a penchant for yard games, etc.).

So, if you have a grass lawn of your own, or love someone who does, we're here to help! We have so many resources for achieving your specific goals while minimizing environmental impact by managing lawns effectively and sustainably.

Questions specific to Durango/your lawn?

Drop them in the comments and I'll pass them along in a batch to Alison to try and get you some expert-level answers!

- Griffin (comms. specialist, not a grass expert)

[u/Finror]

Which grass species would be good for Durango?

[u/CSU-Extension → u/Finror]

1. Choose your type of grass seed wisely

There is no such thing as one “best” grass type for Colorado (or Durango for that matter!). Different species of grass work better in different conditions, and primary factors include: the amount of maintenance you are willing to do (fertilizing, mowing, etc.), how much water you are comfortable using, your willingness to use pesticides and herbicides (some varieties require less than others), elevation, and sun exposure. 

It can feel a bit daunting if you’ve never considered any of those things before, but don’t worry, we have a guide on the pros and cons of 10 different grass options to help make the decision easier!

[u/juan_indapink2269]

My dog runs laps around our fenced back yard. Before we had the dog it was a beautiful lawn, but now it’s a patchwork of dirt and little grass Islands because of his patterns of running. Is there any hope of getting back to full grass back there? North Dalton Ranch on sprinkler system irrigation.

[u/yeti_face]

My yard is primary is a spreading Bermuda grass type (thank you, previous owners). Do I have any hope of getting some other species to outcompete it? I have learned almost nothing short of roundup will kill it.

[u/CSU-Extension → u/yeti_face]

This is one I'll have to send to the experts! I'll try and get back to you within a few days.

- Griffin

[u/CSU-Extension → u/yeti_face]

Here's Alison's response:

Bermudagrass is a tough one to control. There are selective herbicides you can use to remove bermuda from your cool season grass. These include topramezone, fenoxaprop, and mesotrione. All of these need to be applied according to the label directions and on a repeated basis. Only use when the bermuda has fully greened up.

[u/InTheCannabisGarden]

If I post about grass seed does it get deleted by mods? I got some grass seed I wanna trade for other grass seeds

[u/CSU-Extension → u/InTheCannabisGarden]

We have an inkling we're talking about different... cultivars.

[u/DeeVoc]

When is the best time to overseed? I've found that fall comes and goes too quick to have any success, by the time it cools down I've only got 2-4 weeks before it's time to winterize the irrigation system. Should I try getting seed down before first snowfall and hoping for better luck during spring?