Planting grass seed to grow a new lawn can quickly transform sparse patches into a lush, healthy lawn.
Tools/Materials Needed:
Sun or Shade Grass Seed
5-20-20 New Seed Care Fertilizer
Garden Soil
Garden Rake
Hand or push spreader
Lawn Roller (optional)
See Seed Application Rates below to find how much seed and soil you will need for your project. Use our Area Calculator to determine how much garden soil you will need.
Steps for New Seeding
Prepare the Site
Remove any debris and loosen the soil using a hard rake or rototiller. Add garden soil as needed to reach the desired depth as outlined in the application rates section below.
Even Out the Soil
Smooth the soil with the back of your garden rake for a level surface.
Sow the Seeds
Use a hand or push spreader to evenly distribute grass seed over the area.
Fertilize
Apply a 5-20-20 starter fertilizer to promote optimal seed growth. Check the linked rates for the correct application.
Secure the Seeds
Rake or roll the seeds into the soil with a lawn roller to enhance seed-to-soil contact, which helps with germination and prevents birds from eating the seeds.
Tip: If raking, cover the seeds with no more than 1/4 inch of soil.
Water Gently
Water the area lightly to moisten the soil without causing erosion.
Seed Application Rates
New Lawn Seeding
5 pounds per 1,000 square feet on 2 – 3 inches of quality garden soil.
Overseeding Existing Lawn
2 – 3 pounds per 1,000 square feet with a light 1/4 inch top layer of soil.
Grass Seeding FAQs
Keep the soil consistently moist until germination occurs, typically within 7 – 10 days.
You should avoid traffic in the seeded area while seedlings are starting to grow.
The first mowing should take place once the grass is 3-4 inches tall and the ground can support the weight of you and your mower – usually around 4-6 weeks after seeding.
Tip: Set the mower to cut no more than 1/3 of the height of the grass to keep the lawn healthy and strong.
Once the seed is established, approximately 6 weeks after the seeding, you can make your first season-appropriate fertilizer application. Visit our Fertilizing Grass Guide for our recommendations.