As a gardening and landscaping expert, I have had extensive experience with planting Bermuda grass in Georgia. When it comes to the planting dates for Bermuda grass varieties that produce rhizomes, such as Coastal, Tifton 85, Tifton 44, Tifton 78, and Alicia, there is some flexibility in terms of when you can plant them.
Generally, the recommended planting window for these Bermuda grass varieties is from late January until late July. This gives you a wide range of time to choose from, depending on your specific circumstances and preferences.
However, I must emphasize the advantages of early sprigging of Bermuda grass, which means planting it before the grass breaks dormancy. This is typically done in late winter or early spring, usually around February or March in Georgia.
One of the significant advantages of early sprigging is that it allows the Bermuda grass to establish and develop a strong root system before the warmer months. This gives the grass a head start in terms of growth and allows it to better withstand the stresses of summer, such as heat and drought.
Additionally, early sprigging can help the Bermuda grass fill in more quickly and evenly, resulting in a more uniform and lush lawn. It also gives the grass more time to establish itself and become well-established before facing potential weed competition.
In my personal experience, I have found that early sprigging of Bermuda grass in Georgia can greatly improve the overall health and appearance of the lawn. It has helped me achieve a more vibrant and resilient turf, even during the hot and dry summer months.
However, it’s important to note that late planting of Bermuda grass varieties can still be successful, especially if proper care and maintenance are provided. Late spring and early summer plantings can still allow the grass to establish, but they may require more attention and irrigation during the establishment phase.
To summarize, the latest recommended planting time for Bermuda grass in Georgia is late July. However, I highly recommend considering early sprigging, ideally in late winter or early spring, to take advantage of the numerous benefits it offers. This will give your Bermuda grass the best chance of thriving and creating a beautiful, healthy lawn.
