Dormant Seeding vs. Spring Seeding on a Sloped Connecticut Site

The Situation

2,000 sq ft bare soil after drainage repair, mid-December, south-facing slope.

Dormant Seeding (Late Oct–Dec)

• Can germinate beautifully early next spring.
• But: Slope + winter erosion risk = high chance of seed loss.

Recommendation

Wait until spring. The erosion risk on a slope over several months outweighs the early germination benefit. Spring seeding gives better establishment control.

Keep the area protected with straw or erosion blanket if needed, but hold off on seeding.