June 18th, 2025
Is It Too Late to Grow Grass Right Now in the Chicago Suburbs?
Is It Too Late to Grow Grass Right Now in the Joliet Area?
We often hear, “Can I still grow grass right now?” The answer is yes—but it requires more effort and attention, especially with the current weather conditions in the Joliet area.
May 2025: One of the Driest on Record
This May, the South Chicago Suburbs experienced only 1.35 inches of rain, which is 3.14 inches below the typical average of 4.49 inches . Such dry conditions mean that any new grass seed will need consistent and adequate watering to establish properly.
Watering Needs for New Grass
Proper watering is crucial for seed germination and establishment:
-
First Day: Lightly water the seeded area 2–3 times to keep the soil moist.
-
First Week: Continue watering 2–3 times daily, ensuring the top inch of soil remains consistently moist.
-
Weeks 2–4: Gradually reduce to once daily, then to every other day, allowing the grass to develop deeper roots.
-
After 4 Weeks: Transition to a regular watering schedule, providing about 1 inch of water per week, either through rainfall or irrigation.
Considerations Before Seeding
-
Pre-Emergent Herbicides: If you've applied a pre-emergent herbicide (like Prodiamine), avoid seeding in that area for 3–6 months, as these products prevent seed germination.
-
Selective Herbicides: After using selective weed control products, wait 2–4 weeks before seeding to ensure the herbicide doesn't harm new grass.
Preparing the Soil
For successful seeding:
-
Tilling: Lightly till the top 1–2 inches of soil to improve seed-to-soil contact.
-
Covering: After seeding, apply a thin layer of peat moss, compost, or topsoil to retain moisture and protect seeds from the sun.
-
Avoid Bare Dirt: Simply scattering seed on bare soil is less effective, especially in dry conditions.
Tools You'll Need
-
Lawn aerator or tiller
-
Seed spreader
-
Garden hose with sprinkler
-
Peat moss, compost, or topsoil
-
Herbicide (e.g., Tenacity) if needed
-
Patience and consistency
Final Thoughts
While it's not the ideal time to seed your lawn in the Chicago suburbs, it's still possible with the right approach. Ensure consistent watering, proper soil preparation, and be mindful of any herbicides previously applied. With dedication, your lawn can thrive even in less-than-perfect conditions.
Sources:
National Weather Service – weather.gov
Weather and Climate Data – weatherandclimate.info
Country Herald – countryherald.com