Seed Calculator
How much grass seed do you need? Enter your lawn area, project type, and grass type for an instant estimate.
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Seed Rates by Grass Type
| Grass Type | New Lawn | Overseeding | Patch Repair |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky Bluegrass | 2-3 lbs | 1-1.5 lbs | 3-4.5 lbs |
| Tall Fescue | 6-8 lbs | 3-4 lbs | 9-12 lbs |
| Perennial Ryegrass | 6-8 lbs | 3-4 lbs | 9-12 lbs |
| Bermuda | 1-2 lbs | 0.5-1 lbs | 1.5-3 lbs |
| Fine Fescue | 4-5 lbs | 2-2.5 lbs | 6-7.5 lbs |
| Zoysia | 1-2 lbs | 0.5-1 lbs | 1.5-3 lbs |
Rates are per 1,000 sq ft. Calculator uses midpoint values.
Best Time to Seed by Grass Type
Timing your seeding correctly is critical for germination success. Cool-season and warm-season grasses have very different windows.
Cool-Season Grasses
- Kentucky Bluegrass — Early fall (Sep-Oct) or early spring
- Tall Fescue — Early fall is ideal; spring as backup
- Perennial Ryegrass — Fall or spring; germinates fast (5-10 days)
- Fine Fescue — Fall preferred; tolerates shade well
Warm-Season Grasses
- Bermuda — Late spring to early summer (soil 65F+)
- Zoysia — Late spring to early summer (soil 70F+)
- Wait until nighttime temps are consistently above 60F
- Do not seed in fall; seedlings will not survive winter
Seeding Tips
Water Consistently
Keep the top 1 inch of soil moist for 2-3 weeks after seeding. Water lightly 2-3 times per day. Letting seed dry out is the number one cause of failed germination.
Prep the Soil
For new lawns, loosen the top 2-3 inches of soil. For overseeding, mow short and dethatch first. Seed-to-soil contact is essential for germination.
Use a Spreader
A broadcast or drop spreader ensures even coverage. Make two passes at half rate, perpendicular to each other, for the best results.
Hold Off on Weed Control
Do not apply pre-emergent herbicide when seeding. It prevents grass seed from germinating too. Wait 2-3 mowings before any herbicide application.