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*The Angi rating for Lawn Irrigation companies in Cairo, IL is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Lawn Irrigation needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Lawn Irrigation companies in Cairo, IL is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Lawn Irrigation needs.

Last update on March 16, 2026

Lawn Irrigation questions, answered by experts

The best time to plant grass seed depends on your local climate and whether you have cool-season or warm-season grass.

For cool-season grasses (like tall fescue), the ideal time to seed is late summer or early fall (typically August and September). During this period, the soil is still warm from the summer, but the air is cooler, creating optimal conditions for germination and root establishment before winter. There is also less competition from weeds. Spring is a secondary option, but cooler soil temperatures, the risk of a late frost, and less time for the grass to mature before summer heat can make it less successful.

For warm-season grasses (like St. Augustine), the best time to plant is from late spring through mid-summer (typically May and June), when temperatures are consistently between 75 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit.

In general, it is best to avoid seeding during winter or early spring, as cold soil and air can prevent seeds from germinating. For recommendations tailored to your specific grass type and climate, consider consulting a local lawn care professional.

While it’s possible to grow grass seeds by throwing them down, this isn’t the best way to plant them. By amending and prepping the soil beforehand, you’re providing optimal contact between seed and soil for a better chance at germination. If you throw them down without preparing the soil beforehand, seeds are more likely to blow away, get eaten by hungry birds, or never grow.

Technically, yes, at least some of the grass seed you throw on the ground will germinate. If the area doesn’t have good drainage, rain or overwatering can move seeds before they have germinated, leaving your patches still patchy. What does grow won’t have strong roots if there isn’t proper aeration.

When stored under ideal conditions, grass seed lasts anywhere from 10 to 18 months from the testing date without any real decrease in the germination rate. You can still use the seeds after this timeframe, but the germination rates drop 10% to 20% each year. 

If you’re just embarking on an overseeding project, using seeds that have been in storage for a few years isn’t too big of a deal. However, if you’re planning on redoing your entire landscape, your best bet for a healthy, luscious lawn is to use new seeds.

Seeding can be DIY, requiring patience and knowledge of proper preparation and care, to ensure successful lawn establishment.

The Cairo, IL homeowners’ guide to lawn irrigation services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

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