How Long Does Grass Seed Stay Good?

Timing

• Grass seed will usually perform well for one year after its testing date. Storing it in a cool, dry location is the best way to keep the germination rate intact. Heat and moisture can affect its productivity.

Effects

• As time goes on, the grass seed becomes less and less healthy. The germination rate is reduced by 10 to 25 percent annually. If you use seed that is more than one year old, you need to spread more of it in a given area to compensate.

Fun Fact

• Test the grass seed by checking whether it blows away in a light breeze. You can hold some in your hand and blow on it. Those that blow away are simply hulls; they've lost the meat inside. Don't use grass seed if there are many dead specimens.