Labor Day Weekend Lawn Care Tips for a Healthy, Water-Wise Lawn

For many people, Labor Day weekend marks the unofficial end of summer. But in the Columbia Basin, it’s also the best time to think about your lawn. Whether you’re starting fresh or overseeding to fill in bare patches, early September offers the ideal conditions for planting grass that will thrive through the seasons ahead.

Lush green field with large, leafy trees under a cloudy sky. Sparse bushes to the right, creating a tranquil, natural scene. — *Lower Peninsula Park in Moses Lake. Photo by Dinah Rouleau, CBCD.*

Why Plant in Early September?

Cooler temperatures – The intense summer heat begins to fade, making it easier for seeds to germinate and for young plants to establish without stress.
Warm soil – Even though the air is cooling down, the soil is still warm from summer. That warmth speeds up germination and helps roots grow strong before winter.
Reduced weed competition – Many of the aggressive summer weeds are winding down by this time of year, giving your grass seed a better chance to take hold.
More consistent moisture – Fall rains often begin around this time, helping you keep new seedlings watered without relying solely on irrigation.

Lush green grass and tall bushes line a rural road. A small building and expansive fields are visible under a clear blue sky. — *Low mow grass with a fescue mix. Photo by Dinah Rouleau, CBCD.*

Choosing the Right Grass for Our Climate

The Columbia Basin is known for hot, dry summers, which makes water-wise landscaping especially important. Choosing lower-water grasses not only saves on your water bill, but also creates a resilient lawn that can withstand our region’s climate. Some great low-water lawn options for our area include:

Bulbous Bluegrass Hybrid
Several Fescue Varieties (I.e., Sheep)
Buffalo Grass
Grama Grasses

Planting these varieties over Labor Day weekend gives them the head start they need before winter dormancy, ensuring they’ll come back stronger and healthier next spring. Need help choosing the right seed mix for your property? Reach out to the Columbia Basin Conservation District for more assistance in planning and planting your water-wise lawn this season.

Tips for Successful Planting

To give your new lawn the best start, begin by preparing the soil. Rake away debris, loosen any compacted areas, and consider adding compost or a starter fertilizer to improve soil health. When seeding, use a broadcast spreader to ensure even coverage across your yard. Keep the top layer of soil consistently moist by watering lightly and often until the seedlings are well established. Finally, be patient; it may take several weeks before you see uniform growth, but the payoff will be a thick, healthy lawn come spring.

Pathway through a green park by a lake with people in the distance. A child rides a scooter, and seagulls are scattered on the grass. — *Blue Heron Park in Moses Lake. Photo by Kristina Ribellia.*

A Long-Term Investment

Planting over Labor Day weekend sets your lawn up for long-term success. Pairing this timing with low-water grass varieties means you’ll be conserving water while still enjoying a green, durable lawn for years to come.

Learn More About Water-Wise Landscaping

Looking for more ways to save water while keeping your yard beautiful? Explore our programs designed to help you plant smarter:

Urban Water Efficiency Program – Practical tools and resources for creating water-efficient landscapes in our communities.
Heritage Garden Program – Tips and guidance for planting native, low-water use plants that celebrate the unique natural and cultural heritage of the Columbia Basin.