How Much Grass Seed Do I Need?

The amount of grass seed you need depends on your lawn size, the type of grass, and whether you're planting a new lawn or overseeding an existing one. Different grass types have different seeding rates.

Seeding Rates by Grass Type

Grass Type	New Lawn (lbs/1000 sq ft)	Overseeding
Kentucky Bluegrass	2-3	1-2
Tall Fescue	6-8	3-4
Perennial Ryegrass	8-10	4-5
Bermuda Grass	1-2	0.5-1
Zoysia Grass	1-2	0.5-1
Buffalo Grass	3-6	2-3
Fine Fescue	4-5	2-3
Centipede Grass	1-2	0.5-1

New Lawn vs. Overseeding

• New lawn: Starting from bare soil requires more seed for full coverage
• Overseeding: Adding seed to thin existing lawn needs about half the amount
• Bare spot repair: Small areas need same rate as new lawn application

Best Time to Plant Grass Seed

• Cool-season grasses: Early fall (best) or early spring
• Warm-season grasses: Late spring to early summer
• Avoid: Hot summer months and winter

Tips for Successful Seeding

• Test and amend soil before seeding
• Rake soil surface to create seed bed
• Use a spreader for even distribution
• Lightly rake seed into top 1/8" of soil
• Keep soil consistently moist until germination
• Apply starter fertilizer at planting
• Avoid heavy foot traffic for 4-6 weeks

Choosing the Right Grass

• Cool climates: Kentucky Bluegrass, Tall Fescue, Fine Fescue
• Warm climates: Bermuda, Zoysia, Centipede, Buffalo
• Shade tolerance: Fine Fescue, Tall Fescue
• Heavy traffic: Perennial Ryegrass, Tall Fescue, Bermuda
• Drought tolerance: Buffalo Grass, Bermuda, Zoysia