The amount of grass seed you need depends on the size of your lawn, the type of grass, and whether you are planting a new lawn or overseeding an existing one.
How to Calculate How Much Grass Seed to Use
- Measure Your Lawn Area
Calculate the total area of your lawn in square feet or square meters by multiplying length by width. For irregular shapes, use appropriate geometric formulas or estimate the area carefully
- Determine Seeding Rate
- For new lawns , the typical recommended seeding rate is about 4 to 7 pounds per 1,000 square feet (approximately 35 grams per square meter)
* For **overseeding** (thickening an existing lawn), use a lighter rate, around **25 grams per square meter** or less
* Different grass types require different seeding rates; for example, some seeds require 1 pound per 200 square feet, while others cover 1,000 square feet per pound
- Calculate Seed Amount
Multiply your lawn area by the seeding rate. For example, a 50 square meter lawn seeded from scratch at 35 grams per square meter requires about 1.75 kilograms of seed (50 x 35g)
.
If your seed has a germination rate less than 100%, adjust the amount
accordingly (e.g., if germination is 87%, increase seed amount by dividing
desired seed weight by 0.87)
General Guidelines
- Use 4-7 lbs per 1,000 sq ft for new lawns to ensure good coverage without waste
- Overseeding requires less seed, roughly 25g per square meter or about 2-3 lbs per 1,000 sq ft
- Avoid putting down too much seed, as it can cause overcrowding and poor lawn health
- Use a spreader for even distribution and follow seed bag instructions for best results
Summary Table
Lawn Type| Seeding Rate (per 1,000 sq ft)| Seeding Rate (per sq meter)| Notes
---|---|---|---
New Lawn| 4 - 7 lbs| ~35 g| Higher rate for faster coverage
Overseeding| ~2 - 3 lbs| ~25 g| Thicken existing lawn
Specific Grass| Varies (1 lb per 200-1000 sq ft)| Depends on variety| Check
seed label
By accurately measuring your lawn and using the recommended seeding rates, you can ensure healthy, even grass growth without wasting seed
