Noelani Dow

Written by Noelani Dow

Published: 08 Feb 2024

Camryn Rabideau

Reviewed by Camryn Rabideau

6-best-grass-seed
Source: Bobvila.com

Are you looking to give your lawn a boost? If so, then you've come to the right place! In this article, we will explore the 6 best grass seeds that will help you achieve a lush and healthy lawn. From Kentucky Bluegrass to Bermuda grass, we will cover a variety of options that are perfect for different climates and soil types. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, these top picks will be sure to give your lawn the care and attention it deserves.

Top Picks:

Overall Score: 6/10

Scotts EZ Seed Patch & Repair Sun and Shade is a revolutionary grass seeding product designed to fill in bare spots and repair lawn damage. It contains a combination of high performance grass seed, mulch, controlled release fertilizer, tackifier, and protectant to help keep seedlings safe. The product works in tough conditions like full sun, dense shade, high traffic areas, and on slopes. The easy-to-use product covers up to 85 sq. ft. in 3 steps. However, some users have reported issues with seed movement and growth, so results may vary.

Key Features

  • 1: Fills in bare spots and repairs lawn damage
  • 2: Contains high-performance grass seed, mulch, fertilizer, tackifier, and protectant
  • 3: Works in full sun, dense shade, high traffic areas, and on slopes
  • 4: Covers up to 85 sq. ft. in 3 easy steps

Specifications

  • Color: Brown
  • Dimension: 4.75Lx12.25Wx8.65H
  • Size: 3.75 lb.

Pros

  • Revolutionary grass seeding product
  • Works in tough conditions
  • Covers up to 85 sq. ft. in 3 easy steps

Cons

  • Issues with seed movement and growth

Scotts EZ Seed Patch & Repair Sun and Shade is a convenient solution for filling in bare spots and repairing lawn damage. While it may not work perfectly for everyone, many users have seen great results. It’s worth trying if you want to revive your lawn with minimal effort.

Overall Score: 7/10

Pennington Smart Seed Sun and Shade Grass Mix 7 lb is the perfect grass seed mix for lawns that receive sun in some parts and moderate shade in others. It contains a blend of Tall Fescue, Perennial Ryegrass, Kentucky Bluegrass, and Fine Fescue, offering excellent disease resistance and very good drought tolerance. The grass seed is designed to use 30% less water and come with just the right amount of fertilizer to help your lawn succeed. With a customer rating of 4.1/5 and results showing in 8 to 21 days, it's an ideal choice for areas getting 4 to 6 hours of sunlight.

Key Features

  • The perfect mix of Tall Fescue, Perennial Ryegrass, Kentucky Bluegrass, and Fine Fescue
  • Ideal for lawns receiving sun in some parts and moderate shade in others
  • Contains just the right amount of fertilizer and uses 30% less water
  • Results show in 8 to 21 days
  • Excellent disease resistance and very good drought tolerance

Specifications

  • Dimension: 3.55Lx7.50Wx16.50H
  • Size: 7 lb

Pros

  • Results show in 8 to 21 days
  • Excellent disease resistance and very good drought tolerance
  • Uses 30% less water

Cons

  • Hard to get it to germinate!
  • Only some grass grew

Pennington Smart Seed Sun and Shade Grass Mix 7 lb is a highly effective and convenient choice for lawn care, offering great results in as little as 8 days. With an excellent disease resistance and drought tolerance, it’s suitable for areas receiving 4 to 6 hours of sunlight. However, some users have reported difficulties with germination, so careful application and standard maintenance practices are essential for optimal results.

Overall Score: 8/10

The Pennington Smart Seed Sun and Shade Tall Fescue Grass Seed Mix is a high-quality grass seed and fertilizer mix designed specifically for southern lawns that receive both sun and moderate shade. This mix contains the perfect amount of fertilizer to help your lawn thrive, and it provides excellent coverage for up to 1,750 sq. ft. With the ability to survive in hot, humid, and harsh conditions, this grass seed mix is perfect for lawns that get 4 to 6 hours of sunlight. It also uses 30% less water year after year compared to ordinary grass seed and produces results in as little as 8 to 21 days.

Key Features

  • Grass seed and fertilizer mix for southern Tall Fescue lawns
  • Survives in hot, humid, and harsh conditions
  • 30% less water usage compared to ordinary grass seed
  • Results in 8 to 21 days
  • Covers up to 1,750 sq. ft.
  • Ideal for lawns with partial sun and moderate shade

Specifications

  • Color: Natural
  • Dimension: 3.55Lx7.50Wx16.50H
  • Size: 7 lb

Pros

  • Strong germination and great coverage
  • Suitable for hot and humid climates
  • Requires 30% less water than ordinary grass seed

Cons

  • Slow germination for some users
  • Requires patience and regular watering for optimal results

The Pennington Smart Seed Sun and Shade Tall Fescue Grass Seed Mix is an excellent choice for homeowners in the Southern U.S. looking to achieve a healthy and lush lawn. While some users experienced slow germination, the overall consensus is that this grass seed mix provides strong coverage and is highly suitable for hot and humid climates, requiring minimal water. With the ability to thrive in various light conditions, this product is a reliable and effective option for achieving a beautiful and low-maintenance lawn.

Overall Score: 6/10

The Scotts Turf Builder Grass Seed Heat-Tolerant Blue Mix is designed for full sun and partial shade, as well as high drought resistance. It comes with a 4 in 1 WaterSmart PLUS Coating that protects seedlings from disease and feeds them with essential nutrients. With a mix of tall fescue and bluegrass seed, this product is suitable for deep roots and durability. It can cover an area of up to 750 sq. ft. However, some users have reported issues with poor germination and the appearance of weeds.
The grass seed is available in a 3 lb. bag and has a color of blue. It has dimensions of 4.00Lx8.00Wx12.00H.

Key Features

  • Designed for full sun and partial shade, and high drought resistance
  • 4 in 1 Water Smart PLUS Coating absorbs more water, feeds with essential nutrients, and protects seedlings from disease
  • Includes Scotts best seed for deep roots and durability
  • Seeds up to 750 sq. ft.

Specifications

  • Color: Blue
  • Dimension: 4.00Lx8.00Wx12.00H
  • Size: 3 lb.

Pros

  • Good for hot climates
  • Deep roots and durability
  • Seeds cover a large area

Cons

  • Poor germination reported
  • Appearance of weeds

The Scotts Turf Builder Grass Seed Heat-Tolerant Blue Mix is a great choice for individuals looking for grass seed that grows well in hot climates. While there have been some issues reported with germination and weeds, many users have had success with this product. Its ability to cover a large area and provide deep roots and durability make it worth considering. However, potential buyers should be aware of the reported cons before making a purchase.

Overall Score: 7/10

The Jonathan Green Black Beauty Heavy Traffic Grass Seed is a high-quality, tough, and durable grass seed designed for use in areas with heavy foot traffic. It provides a dark green lawn with uniform texture and is great for backyards, sports fields, and other high-traffic areas. This 3 lb bag can seed up to 600 sq. ft. for new lawns and comes with a germination time of 10-14 days. It is suitable for full sun to partial-shaded areas and produces healthy, dense, and attractive turf. While the grass seed has been successful for many users, it does require careful attention to the instructions for best results, and some users have had issues with weed growth.

Key Features

  • High-traffic grass seed for backyards and sports fields
  • Uniform lawn texture for athletic playing fields
  • Designed for full sun to partial-shade areas
  • Produces a dense, dark-green lawn
  • Provides complete coverage for new and overseeded lawns

Specifications

  • Color: Black
  • Dimension: 15.00Lx10.00Wx2.00H
  • Size: 3 lb

Pros

  • Produces dense and attractive turf
  • Suits high-traffic areas like sports fields
  • Germination time of 10-14 days

Cons

  • Weed growth issues reported by some users
  • Requires careful attention to instructions

The Black Beauty Heavy Traffic Grass Seed is a reliable choice for growing lush, dark-green grass in areas with heavy foot traffic. While it may require careful adherence to instructions, its success for many users makes it a great option for anyone looking to improve high-traffic areas.

Overall Score: 9/10

Scotts Turf Builder THICK'R LAWN Grass Seed, Fertilizer, and Soil Improver is a 3-in-1 solution designed to thicken and improve the quality of your lawn. It's suitable for both sunny and shaded areas and covers 4,000 sq. ft. One application in spring and another in late summer or early fall is recommended. The 3-in-1 product combines grass seed, fertilizer, and soil improver, promoting thicker and greener turf with stronger roots. Customers have reported transformative results in their lawns, with rapid grass growth and a noticeable improvement in thickness and resilience. While it may not work as effectively in densely shaded areas, it has proven to be an excellent lawn care addition for many. It's backed by Scotts, a trusted name in lawn care, and is lauded for its effectiveness and convenience.

Key Features

  • 50% thicker lawn with one application
  • 3-in-1 solution for thin lawns
  • Covers 4,000 sq. ft.
  • Suitable for sun & shade

Specifications

  • Color: Plain
  • Dimension: 21.00Lx5.00Wx15.00H
  • Size: 40 lb.

Pros

  • Convenient 3-in-1 solution
  • Promotes rapid grass growth
  • Simple application process
  • Suitable for various lawn conditions
  • Backed by a trusted brand

Cons

  • May not work as effectively in shaded areas
  • Requires proper care and maintenance for best results

Scotts Turf Builder THICK’R LAWN Grass Seed, Fertilizer, and Soil Improver is a game-changer for transforming thin, lackluster lawns into lush and resilient green spaces. Its convenience, effectiveness, and rapid results make it a highly recommended addition to any lawn care routine. While it may not be the perfect solution for heavily shaded areas, it has proven to deliver exceptional results for countless homeowners, transforming their lawns into vibrant, healthy landscapes.

Buyer's Guide: Best Grass Seed

1. Understand Your Climate and Soil

  • Research the type of grass that grows best in your region's climate and soil.
  • Consider factors like temperature, rainfall, and drainage to choose the right grass seed.

2. Determine Your Lawn's Purpose

  • Decide if your lawn is for high-traffic areas, aesthetics, or environmental benefits.
  • Different grass varieties have different tolerance levels for wear and tear.

3. Choose the Right Grass Type

  • Cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass and fescue are best for cooler climates.
  • Warm-season grasses like Bermuda and zoysia thrive in warmer climates.

4. Look for Quality Seed

  • Check for weed and other crop seed content on the label.
  • Ensure the seed has a high germination rate and low levels of inert matter.

5. Consider Sun and Shade

  • Determine the amount of sunlight your lawn receives throughout the day.
  • Some grasses, like fescue, thrive in shaded areas, while others, like Bermuda grass, need full sun.

6. Read the Label

  • The label provides important information like seed type, germination rate, and any added coatings or treatments.
  • Look for certified seeds for quality assurance.

7. Budget and Coverage

  • Consider the size of your lawn and the amount of seed you need.
  • Compare prices per pound and coverage to get the best value for your money.

8. Consider Maintenance

  • Think about the level of maintenance required for the grass type you are considering.
  • Some grasses need frequent mowing and watering, while others are more low-maintenance.

9. Opt for Drought Resistance

  • If you live in an area with drought conditions, consider grass varieties that are drought-tolerant.
  • This will help your lawn stay green even during dry spells.

10. Ask for Recommendations

  • Talk to local gardeners, lawn care professionals, or garden centers for their recommendations.
  • They can provide insight into the best grass seed options for your specific area.

11. Consider Eco-Friendly Options

  • Look for grass seed blends that promote biodiversity and require less water and fertilizer.
  • Eco-friendly options can help support a healthy ecosystem in your lawn.

12. Understand Establishment and Growth

  • Research the time it takes for the grass to establish and start growing.
  • Some grass varieties may take longer to fill in compared to others.

Remember that choosing the best grass seed for your lawn is essential for its overall health and appearance. By considering factors like climate, soil, maintenance, and purpose, you can make an informed decision for your specific needs. Don't rush the process and take the time to research and compare different options before making a purchase.

Frequently Asked Questions about 6 Best Grass Seed

What is the best type of grass seed for a sunny yard?

The best type of grass seed for a sunny yard is a warm-season grass like Bermuda or Zoysia, as these varieties thrive in direct sunlight and high temperatures.

How often should I water my newly planted grass seed?

It’s important to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, so aim to water the newly planted grass seed 2-3 times per day for the first two weeks, then gradually reduce to once a day.

Can I mix different types of grass seed together?

Yes, you can mix different types of grass seed together to create a custom blend that suits your specific needs, such as combining a shade-tolerant variety with a drought-resistant one for a yard with varying light conditions.

What is the best time of year to plant grass seed?

The best time to plant grass seed is in the early fall, as the soil is still warm but the air is cooler, creating optimal conditions for seed germination and growth.

How long does it take for grass seed to germinate?

Depending on the variety of grass seed, it can take anywhere from 5-30 days for the seeds to germinate and begin to sprout. Be patient and keep the soil consistently moist during this time.

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