How the Seed Coverage Calculator Works

This calculator determines the amount of grass seed required based on your lawn size and the type of grass you're planting. Different grass species have vastly different seeding rates, so choosing the right amount is critical for a thick, healthy lawn.

New Lawn vs Overseeding

New lawns require significantly more seed than overseeding an existing lawn. Overseeding fills in thin spots and improves density, using roughly half the rate of a new installation. Our calculator provides both rates.

Seeding Rates by Grass Type

Kentucky Bluegrass: 2-3 lbs per 1,000 sq ft (new) / 1-2 lbs (overseed). Slow to establish but forms a dense, beautiful turf.
Tall Fescue: 6-8 lbs per 1,000 sq ft (new) / 3-4 lbs (overseed). Excellent heat and drought tolerance.
Perennial Ryegrass: 6-8 lbs per 1,000 sq ft (new) / 3-4 lbs (overseed). Germinates fast, great for quick cover.
Bermuda Grass: 1-2 lbs per 1,000 sq ft (new) / 0.5-1 lbs (overseed). Aggressive spreader for warm climates.
Fine Fescue: 4-5 lbs per 1,000 sq ft (new) / 2-3 lbs (overseed). Excellent for shade and low-maintenance areas.

Tips for Successful Seeding

Prepare the soil by raking and removing debris. Apply seed with a broadcast spreader for even coverage. Keep the soil consistently moist (not soaked) for 2-3 weeks until germination. Apply a thin layer of straw mulch to retain moisture and protect seeds from birds. Avoid mowing until the new grass reaches 3-4 inches tall.

Best Time to Seed

Cool-season grasses (Bluegrass, Fescue, Ryegrass) seed best in early fall (September) when soil is warm but air is cool. Warm-season grasses (Bermuda, Zoysia) should be seeded in late spring (May-June) when soil temperatures consistently reach 65-70°F.