Grass Seed Calculations: Seeding Rates by Turf Type & Lawn Method
Calculating grass seed requirements requires determining your total lawn square footage, establishing whether you are planting a brand-new bare-soil lawn or overseeding an existing lawn, and applying the agronomic seeding rate per 1,000 square feet for your specific turfgrass variety.
The Grass Seed Coverage Formula
Total Seed (lbs) = (Total Lawn Area in sq ft ÷ 1,000) × Recommended Seeding Rate (lbs / 1,000 sq ft)
Agronomic Seeding Rates Reference Table (Per 1,000 Sq Ft)
| Grass Type | New Lawn Rate | Overseeding Rate | Germination Window |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky Bluegrass | 2 to 3 lbs | 1 to 1.5 lbs | 14 – 28 Days |
| Tall Fescue (TTTF) | 6 to 8 lbs | 3 to 4 lbs | 7 – 14 Days |
| Perennial Ryegrass | 5 to 7 lbs | 2.5 to 3.5 lbs | 5 – 10 Days (Fastest) |
| Bermuda Grass | 1 to 2 lbs | 0.5 to 1.0 lbs | 10 – 21 Days |
