Grass Seed Calculator

Frequently asked questions

How much grass seed do I need per 1,000 square feet?

It depends on the grass. NC State Extension's new-lawn rates per 1,000 sq ft: tall fescue 6 lb, Kentucky bluegrass 1.5–2 lb, bluegrass + perennial ryegrass mix 2.5 lb, bermudagrass 1–2 lb (double if coated), bahiagrass 5 lb, centipedegrass 0.25–0.5 lb, zoysiagrass 1–2 lb.

How much grass seed do I need for 5,000 square feet?

30 lb of tall fescue for a new lawn (5 × 6 lb), or 7.5–10 lb of Kentucky bluegrass. To overseed tall fescue at Colorado State's 4–6 lb rate, about 25 lb (20–30 lb).

How much seed do I need to overseed a lawn?

Colorado State University Extension's overseeding rates per 1,000 sq ft are tall fescue 4–6 lb, Kentucky bluegrass 3–5 lb and perennial ryegrass or a bluegrass/ryegrass mix 6–8 lb. Aerating first with a core aerator gives the seed holes to land in.

Can I put down too much grass seed?

Yes. NC State Extension warns that higher seeding rates can result in weak, thin stands that are more susceptible to disease and high-temperature stress. Stick to the rate and spread it evenly in two passes at right angles.

When should I plant grass seed?

In NC State's guide, cool-season grasses such as tall fescue and bluegrass are seeded in late summer to early fall (mid-August to mid-October by region), and warm-season grasses such as bermudagrass, centipede and zoysia in spring to midsummer (March to July).