Grass Germination Period

Species Selection

• Each species of grass has a different germination time, so the first consideration when discussing grass germination times is what species of grass you are trying to germinate. Because of the wide range of germination times among different grass species, some homeowners opt to purchase sod instead, since seeds are already pregerminated and require less labor-intensive monitoring to ensure that the grass will become fully established in your lawn.

Germination Times of Some Common Species

• Red fescue, rough bluegrass, hard fescue -- species popularly grown as turfgrass -- typically take anywhere from seven to 14 days to germinate, while buffalograss and Kentucky bluegrass take 14 to 30 days. These grasses are near the longer end of the spectrum of germination times. Other popular varieties, such as colonial bentgrass and creeping bentgrass, usually take 10 to 14 days. On the quicker end of the spectrum, perennial and annual ryegrass can germinate in as little as 5 to 10 days.

Climate and Germination Times

• The reason for the wide ranges in germination times and the reason that the grass you establish may not germinate within these ranges is that numerous different factors can affect grass seed germination times. Climate may be the most important factor controlling germination times. Tall fescue, for example, can take as long as 14 to 21 days to germinate in very hot conditions but in more temperate climates rarely takes longer than 12 days to germinate. This factor highlights the importance of selecting a species of grass that is well-suited to grow in your climate.

Other Factors Affecting Germination

• Numerous other factors can also affect germination times, including planting depth, the time of day that you plant grass seeds, air temperature, soil temperature, fertilization, irrigation at planting time and many others. Always follow the instructions accompanying the grass seeds your purchased; and, if seeds do not germinate within the amount of time that you would expect them to, consult a local university extension office for other cultural practices that may encourage germination.