# Grass Seed Germination Rates
Grass seed is the most cost effective way of growing a lawn, but it's also the slowest. Unlike sod and hydroseeding, which provide an almost-instant lawn, seeds need time to germinate and grow. Some grow faster than others.
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Time Frame
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Ryegrass is the quickest seed to germinate, taking about five to 10 days. Fescue and bluegrass germinate in about a week. Bermuda grass and bentgrass seeds grow in as little as 10 days and buffalo grass and Kentucky bluegrass need 14 to 30 days.
Considerations
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The label on the grass seed packaging denotes the germination rate. Ninety to 95 percent is preferred, but many germinate at an 85 percent rate.
Potential
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For faster germination, use a scarified grass seed. According to North Carolina State University, scarification alters the seed coat by mechanical or chemical means to make it more susceptible to moisture. It cracks open sooner, resulting in a quicker germination rate.
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Lawn Planting
- Fast-Growing Grass Seed
- Grass Seed Coverage Rates
- DIY Grass Seed
- The Germination of Grass Seeds
- Grass Germination Period
- Fescue Grass Seed Germination
- Seeding Rates for Grass Seed
- Planting Rates of Timothy Grass Seed
- The Grass Seed Germination Process
- What Causes Grass Seed to Germinate?
- Length of Germination of Grass Seed
- How do I Speed up Grass Seed Germination?
