The best time to lay sod in the Florida Panhandle is during the spring or early fall when temperatures are moderate, and there is consistent rainfall. Here’s why:
Best Seasons for Laying Sod in Northwest Florida:
- Spring (March–May): Ideal because the temperatures are warm, and the sod has time to establish before the extreme summer heat.
- Early Fall (September–October): Great for sod installation as the weather cools down, but there’s still enough warmth for root growth before winter dormancy.
Seasons to Avoid:
- Summer (June–August): While sod can be installed in summer, it requires frequent watering to survive the intense heat and humidity. If you must lay sod in summer, be prepared for extra maintenance.
- Winter (November–February): Sod can be laid in winter, but warm-season grasses like St. Augustine, Bermuda, and Zoysia will go dormant and take longer to establish. However, root growth still occurs at a slower pace.
