How Much Grass Seed Do I Need? Pounds per 1,000 Sq Ft by Type

A new tall fescue lawn takes 8 pounds of seed per 1,000 square feet, so 40 pounds for 5,000 sq ft (2 bags of 20 pounds). Overseeding an existing lawn takes half as much. The rate depends on the kind of grass: Kentucky bluegrass seed is tiny and needs only 2.5 pounds per 1,000 sq ft. The grass seed calculator works it out for your own lawn and grass type.

Seeding rate by grass type

For a 5,000 sq ft lawn, and the area one 5-pound bag covers at the new-lawn rate:

These are typical rates. Read the bag, since mixes and coated seed have their own rates.

Seed for common lawn sizes

Tall fescue, new lawn and overseeding:

How to seed a lawn

1. Prepare the soil. Loosen the top 3 to 4 inches, remove stones and weeds, add compost or topsoil where needed (see the topsoil calculator), and rake it level.
2. Spread the seed with a broadcast spreader, half in one direction and half across.
3. Press it in with a roller or rake lightly so that the seed touches the soil.
4. Water often. Keep the top inch of soil damp until the grass is up, and then water less often and more deeply.
5. Feed it. A starter fertilizer helps new grass. See the lawn fertilizer calculator.
6. Mow when the grass is about a third taller than the height you want, with a sharp blade.

Mistakes to avoid

• Too much seed: seedlings crowd each other and get disease.
• Seed that is sown in the heat of summer or when it is frosty, since it will not germinate well.
• Letting the soil dry out in the first weeks.
• Using the wrong grass for the sun, the shade and the climate. Choose a type for your region.

See the sod vs grass seed guide to decide between them. Estimates only: use the rate on your seed bag.

Frequently asked questions