Lawn Calculator

Calculate how much grass seed, sod, and fertilizer you need for your lawn project. Works for new lawns and overseeding existing lawns.

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Overseeding uses half the seed rate

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How to Calculate Grass Seed and Sod

Our lawn calculator helps you determine the right amount of grass seed, sod, and fertilizer for your lawn project. Whether starting a new lawn or overseeding an existing one, accurate calculations save money and ensure proper coverage.

Grass Seed Rates by Type

  • Kentucky Bluegrass: 2-3 lbs per 1,000 sq ft (fine seeds)
  • Tall Fescue: 6-8 lbs per 1,000 sq ft
  • Perennial Ryegrass: 6-8 lbs per 1,000 sq ft
  • Bermuda Grass: 1-2 lbs per 1,000 sq ft
  • Zoysia Grass: 1-2 lbs per 1,000 sq ft

Sod vs Seed: Which is Better?

Seed is more economical and offers more variety, but takes 2-3 months to establish. Sod provides instant results and prevents erosion but costs significantly more. Choose sod for slopes, high-traffic areas, or when you need quick results.

When to Seed Your Lawn

Cool-season grasses (Kentucky Bluegrass, Fescue) should be seeded in early fall (September) or early spring. Warm-season grasses (Bermuda, Zoysia) should be seeded in late spring to early summer when soil temperatures reach 65-70°F.

Frequently asked questions

How much grass seed do I need per 1,000 sq ft?⌄
For cool-season grasses like tall fescue, plan on 6-8 lbs per 1,000 sq ft for a new lawn and 3-4 lbs for overseeding. Fine-seeded types like Kentucky bluegrass need less (2-3 lbs new), and warm-season grasses like Bermuda need only 1-2 lbs.
When is the best time to plant grass?⌄
Plant cool-season grasses (fescue, bluegrass, ryegrass) in early fall when soil is warm and weeds are fading. Plant warm-season grasses (Bermuda, Zoysia) in late spring once soil temperatures reach 65-70°F.
How much does seeding a lawn cost?⌄
DIY seeding costs about $0.10 to $0.20 per square foot including seed, starter fertilizer, and soil prep materials. A 5,000 sq ft lawn runs roughly $500-$1,000 DIY, while professional hydroseeding or sod installation costs significantly more.
Should I choose seed or sod?⌄
Seed is far cheaper and offers more grass variety, but takes 2-3 months to establish. Sod costs 10-15x more but gives you an instant lawn and prevents erosion. Use sod on slopes, high-traffic areas, or when you need quick results.
How often should I fertilize my lawn?⌄
Most lawns do well with 2-4 fertilizer applications per year. Cool-season lawns benefit most from fall feedings, while warm-season lawns should be fed through late spring and summer during active growth.

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