How Closely to Sow Grass Seed

Amount

• Each seed bag should denote the seeding rate, or how much seed to disperse, for a given area. Typically, sow about 16 to 22 seeds per square inch or 8 to 10 lbs. per acre. Making two passes over the area, spreading half the seed each time, allows for the best germination.

Considerations

• Use a mechanical or hand spreader to sow grass seeds, depending on the size of the area you're planting. The spreaders drop the seed onto the top of the soil. Make sure there are no weeds or other debris because they could prevent soil-to-seed contact.

Method

• Grass seeds need to be in direct contact with soil to germinate. By gently raking the seed into the top one-eighth to one-fourth inch of soil, you will promote faster sprouting. On the flip side, covering the seed with too much soil won't give them the light they need to grow. It's a good idea to lightly run an empty lawn roller over the seeds to push them down slightly.