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The Germination of Grass Seeds

Grass seed germination is the point where the seed starts to produce a delicate shoot and put down roots. However, grass seed germination won't happen without the right temperatures, soil conditions, amount of light and watering rates. Time your seed sowing for either very late summer or mid spring once temperatures rise above 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Lawn expert Sandra Mason at the University of Illinois suggests that late August through September is preferable. Germination takes between seven and 30 days, depending on the type of grass species.

Things You'll Need

  • Seed
  • Rake
  • Shovel
  • Watering can or sprinkler
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Instructions

    • 1

      Buy seed that suits your local climate and preferred lawn type. Look for germination rates listed on the package. Choose seed with over 75 percent germination rate and 90 percent purity to ensure the most reliable crop. Some perennial ryegrass species need over 90 percent germination rates for successful coverage.

    • 2

      Prepare an area for a lawn by removing rocks and large roots. Choose a spot away from the shade in plenty of sun. Ideally, you soil should contain 60 percent sand with 40 percent silt and clay to create a sandy loam, according to Mary Robson at Washington State Extension.

    • 3

      If you have poor quality soil, spread 2 inches of compost or manure on top. Work it in to a depth of 8 inches. This organic matter helps the grass seed germinate by retaining moisture and gives seedlings more nutrients for stronger early growth.

    • 4

      Rake the soil to open up small furrows and holes. Spread the seed evenly over the top of the soil bed. Rake the area lightly until the seed is covered by approximately a quarter of an inch of soil. Follow the seed package instructions for the amount of seed per square foot.

    • 5

      Water the newly seeded area. Regularly water the seeds over the next few weeks, but don't let pools of water form. Aim for moist, not drenched soil. In hotter areas, you may need to use a sprinkler to keep the area damp. Reduce your watering rate when you see small shoots appear. Your grass seeds have now germinated.

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Growing Grass
  1. Do Grass Seeds Sink Into the Soil?
  2. How Long Is the Germination Time for Bermuda Grass Seed?
  3. Depth for Grass Seeds in the Soil
  4. The Time for Grass Seeds to Germinate
  5. When to Seed Grass in the Fall
  6. The Germination of Kentucky Bluegrass Seeds
  7. The Best Grass Seed for Poor Soil
  8. The Best Way to Seed Grass
  9. The Best Soil for Grass Seed
  10. Fescue Grass Seed Germination
  11. Grass Seed Planting in the Fall
  12. The Grass Seed Germination Process

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