Unearthing the right answer to the “sod vs. seed” question can be a lengthy process with pros to account for and cons to weigh. Sure sodding serves instant gratification up on a platter, prevents erosion, and fends off weeds, but seeding is, overall, an inexpensive and option-abundant alternative. Once you’ve settled on planting grass seed, you can leave the stress of this decision behind you and focus wholeheartedly on setting your seed up for successful germination.
What is grass seed germination?
Grass seed germination is a process that occurs when blades of grass begin to sprout up from the ground from planted grass seeds.
The success of grass seed germination is contingent on the right combination of water, soil, and temperatures.
Types of grass seed
If you are thinking about planting grass, there are several types of seeds to choose from. Many grass seeds germinate at different rates. Some grass seeds may begin to sprout in a week, while others may take much longer.
Whether you’re shopping at a local home improvement store or partnering with a trusted seed store specializing in grass seed, it’s vital to keep germination rates in mind. Here is a list of grass seeds available according to their germination times:
5 – 10 days
Grass seeds available with a germination rate of 5 – 10 days include ryegrass, annual ryegrass, and perennial ryegrass.
7 – 14 days
Grass seeds available with a germination rate of 7 – 14 days include hard fescue, red fescue, seashore paspalum, tall fescue, and rough bluegrass.
14 – 30 days
Grass seeds with a germination rate of 14 – 30 days include Centipede, Zosia, Bermuda grass, Bahia grass, Buffalo grass, and Kentucky grass seeds.
Four tips for successful seed germination
Here are four tips for growing the best grass seed:
Proper lighting
Successful germination depends on how much light the seed receives. It’s important to plant the seeds close to the top of the soil’s surface, so they can reap the growing benefits that the sun offers.
Grass seeds need to come in contact with soil to germinate. But, they do best with being lightly distributed on top and gently patted down with a roller.
Soil temperature
Soil temperature can drastically affect the outcome of successful germination.
Warm seasons bear temperatures between 80 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit and are best for growing seeds that take longer to germinate, such as centipede, Zoysia, Bahia, and Buffalo.
Cold seasons offer up temperatures of 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit and are best for growing grass seeds with a quicker germination time, such as ryegrass, bentgrass, bluegrass, and fescue.
Proper watering
Usually, ten minutes of watering your lawn twice a day should be enough to promote healthy seed germination. It is best to water in the morning between 6 and 9 a.m. and evenings after the sun has gone down around 7 p.m.
In dryer climates, you may need to water your lawn more often for optimum results.
Choice of soil
Soil that is rich in organic matter is best for healthy seed germination. Some sources of organic soil may include peat moss, compost, and fertilizers.
Good soil is always the key to successful seed germination.
Final thoughts
Growing a beautiful lawn that you can be proud of for years to come doesn’t have to be complicated when you understand the best ways to facilitate healthy seed germination.