Grass Seed Amount Calculator
Calculate how many pounds of grass seed you need for a new lawn or overseeding, based on grass type and lawn size.
How it works
Seeding rate = base rate × (1 for new lawn, 0.5 for overseeding) · Seed needed = rate × (area ÷ 1000)
Seeding rates are published per 1000 ft² and vary a lot by species: fine-seeded, spreading grasses like Kentucky bluegrass and Bermuda need far less than bunch-type tall fescue or ryegrass. Overseeding an existing lawn uses roughly half the new-lawn rate, since established turf already provides cover. Over-seeding wastes money and forces seedlings to compete; under-seeding leaves thin, weed-prone patches.
Worked example
A new 2000 ft² tall-fescue lawn at 7 lb per 1000 ft²: 7 × (2000 ÷ 1000) = 14 lb of seed. Overseeding the same lawn uses half that — 7 lb.
Frequently asked questions
How much grass seed per 1000 square feet?
It depends on the species: about 2–3 lb for Kentucky bluegrass, 6–8 lb for tall fescue, 5–7 lb for perennial ryegrass, and 1–2 lb for Bermuda. Overseeding uses roughly half the new-lawn rate.
What is the difference between seeding and overseeding?
Seeding establishes a lawn on bare soil at the full rate. Overseeding spreads seed into existing turf to thicken it or repair thin spots, and uses about half as much seed because the ground is already partly covered.
When should I seed?
Cool-season grasses (fescue, bluegrass, rye) establish best in early fall, with spring as a second choice. Warm-season grasses like Bermuda are seeded in late spring to early summer once the soil is warm.
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This calculator is for educational purposes. Double-check important results before acting on them.