Seasonal Lawn Calendar
A practical expectations guide for the Triangle area. Your yard’s sun, soil, and irrigation coverage will matter more than any calendar.
Spring (March – May)
- Warm-season (Bermuda/Zoysia/Centipede): green-up and growth return; mowing ramps up.
- Fescue: looks great in spring; avoid over-fertilizing right before heat ramps up.
- All lawns: fix irrigation coverage now before summer stress exposes weak spots.
Summer (June – August)
- Most common failure mode: uneven watering (dry corners, edges, sunny strips).
- Fescue: heat stress is normal in full sun; focus on survival + recovery planning.
- Warm-season: thrives with sun; avoid scalping—mow frequently enough to remove less each cut.
- Treatments to pause or lighten: avoid aggressive fertilizer and many herbicide sprays during peak heat or drought.
Fall (September – November)
- Best “fix-it” window: cooler nights help roots recover.
- Fescue: this is the premium season for establishment and recovery work.
- Fescue overseeding: late summer into early fall is the practical window—seed needs time to germinate before winter.
- Warm-season: growth slows; prep for dormancy and reduce water gradually.
Winter (December – February)
- Warm-season: dormancy is normal (straw-brown).
- Traffic: avoid rutting or tearing frozen turf.
- Planning: line up spring projects, shade decisions, and irrigation improvements.
Watering Guide by Season
- Summer High Heat: 1.5 inches per week (deep, infrequent soaks).
- Spring/Fall Moderate: 0.5 to 1 inch per week (adjust for rain).
- Winter Cold: Minimal to None (nature handles it).