Time Frame

• The best time of the year to plant grass seed is in the late fall or early autumn. The warm ground allows the seed to germinate and put down roots before the winter dormant period. If you are unable to plant then, early spring is your next best choice.
  
  

Fertilizer

• After you sow your seeds, apply starter fertilizer to help the seeds germinate. Three weeks later add more fertilizer. According to This Old House, the first layer of fertilizer will be gone from the surface of the soil from watering by that time.
  
  

Water

• When watering your new seeds, the water should saturate the first 6 to 8 inches of soil; avoid creating puddles. Water often enough so the soil is constantly damp.