9 Best Grass Seeds to Plant in 2023

Who does not like a lush green grass surface in their backyard? With the right grass seeds, you can make it happen easily.

Good quality grass is vital when it comes to covering lawns or filling up spots. You may want it to enhance the look of well-manicured lawns, or you may use it as food for the livestock. Whatever the use, a thick and healthy turf is the ultimate goal.

But when we set out to purchase grass seeds, we found multiple choices in the market, and choosing one was rather challenging.

To save you from that hassle, this comprehensive and unbiased list of 11 top-notch options has been curated. We have also included a buyer’s guide to help you choose the right one for your needs.

So, without further ado, let’s get down to business!

Best Grass Seeds to Plant

Here’s the list of the 9 best grass seeds that are sure to make your lawn the envy of the neighborhood.

1. Jonathan Green 10322 Black Beauty-Best for Drought Resistance

Do you want a backyard full of grass in a lovely forest green shade? The Jonathan Green 10322 Black Beauty will give you just that with their attractive dark color and the ability to sustain warm temperatures. This is a perfect fit for a well-maintained and decorated garden and will add more charm to it.

It contains a mix of elite Kentucky Bluegrass, Black Beauty Tall Fescues, and elite Perennial Ryegrass. This gives it a rich dark green color and allows every type to grow well. We have a thick green grassy lawn, thanks to the various types.

Furthermore, we found that the seeds grow best in clay or sandy soil. Try to plant it under the sun directly or in partial shade to see the best results. It can take hot temperatures and will blossom in it.

The secret to it growing so well under direct sunlight is an invisible waxy coating that all the seeds have. This coating helps it capture and preserve moisture so that it does not evaporate away, making it perfect for severe drought-like circumstances.

Another benefit of this coating is that it protects the grass from insects. Since they are unable to feed on it, insects won’t stay near it. We used it for our backyard, and our children played in it barefoot without any worries.

Although the seeds come packed with many benefits, they are expensive compared to their peers. An average homeowner may find it difficult to afford a lot of these seeds, but we loved the quality. So, if you have the capacity to splurge, we recommend getting this.

2. Scotts Turf Builder Heat-Tolerant Blue Mix-Best for Thick Coverage

Known to grow 33% thicker than ordinary tall fescue, the Scotts Turf Builder Heat-Tolerant Blue Mix is one of our top recommendations. If you need a thick carpet of rick green grass on your lawn, this is the product to go with. Read on to learn more about its bells and whistles.

Weighing 3 lbs, it can cover a 750-square-foot area with lush greenery. You can grow it under direct sunlight or in partial shade as it is made to survive extreme conditions with ease. We will suggest watering it twice daily in the beginning, and you can slowly minimize it once the seeds germinate.

With 4-in-1 WaterSmart PLUS Coating, the water will be retained and used in the long run. These seeds have the ability to absorb water and store it and can draw out nutrients too. This makes it perfect for drought-prone regions.

Besides, it boasts longer roots that hold onto the soil and go deeper into it. It is known to be more durable, and once fully grown, surviving without water for even a week will be possible.

You can use it to repair empty and dry patches in the soil. This will hold the soil together and help replenish it with the needed moisture and nutrients.

Since the product leads to thicker growth, the grass will need to be trimmed very often. Otherwise, there will be overgrowth, and that will spoil the look of your garden. Ensure that you trim it once it crosses 3 inches in height, and you should have a good-looking lawn.

3. DLF 216AX004UCT198 Premium Oregon Grown Kentucky– Best for Athletic Fields

If you want even grass coverage on your large lawns, the DLF 216AX004UCT198 Premium Oregon Grown Kentucky is a brilliant pick. It comes in a large 50-pound bag and can cover 10,000 square feet with the seeds. Be it clay or sand; this can grow on both surfaces efficiently.

This is a cold season grass, and one issue that occurs with such grass is that it cannot take a lot of heat. This one stands out and has the capacity to survive in heat and drought-like conditions easily. Hence it is a perfect choice for areas with an extreme climate that includes hot summers and very cold winters.

Secondly, this product is a perfect choice for athletic fields, parks, and public lawns. This is because they have wide leaves and are rooted deeply in the ground. It makes them resistant to constant wear and tear and can also be used for football grounds. The constant playing and ball movement will not lead to the uprooting of grass.

Hence, you can already perceive how durable it is. Also, a wax coating covers the seeds and keeps them safe from diseases and unwanted insects, adding to their durability.

The only area of improvement is that it also facilitates the growth of crabgrass. Crabgrass is a sort of weed, and it grows in large amounts disrupting the even grass layer. They can be removed, but it is pretty time-consuming and needs a lot of effort on your side.

4. Scotts EZ Seed Patch and Repair

If the soil in your backyard is dry and lacks nutrients, we have the perfect solution for you. The Scotts EZ Seed Patch and Repair provides a combination of seeds, mulch, and fertilizer and is capable of turning your dried lawn into a green wonderland.

This product is known for its high performance. It can absorb 6 times its weight in water and then expands to cover every seed with a moist layer. This provides it with enough protection and will keep the soil layer moist even in full sunlight.

It is also paired with exclusive controlled release technology that will feed the seedlings as well as help in jumpstarting the growth process. This fertilizer is full of nutrients that work exclusively with the seeds.

Combined with a tackifier, the pips are protected from being washed away if there is too much water. This keeps the seeds well rooted to the ground and safe from diseases that mainly attack newly planted areas.

Furthermore, it can grow in all kinds of areas, from sloping surfaces to dense shades. You can grow it in high-traffic areas too, without worries. One bag will cover 85 sq. ft. of area.

The only drawback here is that it absorbs a lot of water and needs it initially for proper growth. You will have to water it sufficiently twice a day to get good results. This could be time-consuming, and there cannot be water scarcity.

5. Patten Seed Company TifBlair Centipede Grass Seed

If you want to cover large landscapes, public parks, and roadsides, the Patten Seed Company TifBlair Centipede Grass Seed will be a great option. It is made on a family farm and is of extremely high quality. We have seen this kind of grass grow around airports and highways too, as they usually need low maintenance.

This is a perfect product to consider if you want the grass to grow slowly. This will prevent you from having to trim on a daily basis, and you can do so after months without having a lot of overgrowths to deal with.

These are also extremely budget-friendly and will not burn a hole in your pockets. Again, do not worry about the quality as it is environment-friendly and can grow in adverse weather conditions. You will find a thick green layer of grass that matches any other expensive product.

Furthermore, it has low fertility requirements, and hence the soil does not have to be rich in nutrients for the pip to survive. You can grow these on low-quality soil. The grass will make the ground look attractive again while adding nutrients to it over time.

We found that these seeds do not germinate well in cold climates. We tried it once and failed miserably, so we would recommend you make a note of the weather conditions before purchasing the product. It thrives in hot weather and is best suited for such places. In places with cooler weather, you can grow it till September.

6. GreenView 2829338 Fairway Formula

Up next is a product that will give you lush dark green lawns with beautiful glossy grass coverage. The GreenView 2829338 Fairway Formula is a brilliant addition to our gardens and has proven its worth with its brilliant performance and fast germination.

This is an excellent product to cover up empty patches of soil with a lush green layer of healthy grass. It is 99.9% free of weeds and will ensure a leveled ground full of grass. This also saved us a lot of time, which we would have otherwise spent cleaning the area of weed.

Furthermore, this unit is suitable for high-traffic areas and playgrounds, which see a lot of activity. Since the grass has deep roots, it stays in place and will not tear or come out because of physical activity.

Besides, another reason for it to be a brilliant choice for public lawns and playgrounds is that it is very soft and comfortable to sit on. It composes most of the ryegrass and does not have dirt and mulch, and hence it is comfortable.

Overall we were very satisfied and it germinated within 5 days of getting planted. At the price point that it comes for, it is absolutely worth the money.

Although it grows well in the sun and shade, it is not a good fit for places with a dry climate. The soil needs to have moisture, and you would need to keep it hydrated to ensure better growth. So, make a note of this before you purchase.

7. Jonathan Green JOG10600 40600

Are you a gardening enthusiast looking to create that perfect lawn? The Jonathan Green JOG10600 40600 will provide a beautiful green spread of grass. Impress your guests during the next backyard barbeque dinner with flawless green coverage. What’s more! It is very affordable, and you can easily buy it.

A major problem that we faced earlier was with insects. Our area was very prone to insects, and walking outside would mean getting bitten by them. But this product prevented insects from affecting them and living between the grassroots. These endophytic varieties help deter insect damage and keep the surface safe to sit on.

Another major benefit is that it can grow well even on dry soil. Not all varieties of grass can do this, but this one can live in drought-like conditions. Provide enough water initially for the seeds to germinate, and then it can survive on less water easily.

Also, it provides absolute value for money. You can buy a 3-pound bag, and it will cover 1800 square feet. In case you have a smaller lawn, you can store the seeds for some time and use them later.

The growth rate of this grass is high, and it will grow several inches within weeks. We had to mow within 3 weeks of planting the seeds and had to keep doing it every other week. This could be time-consuming and may be a difficult thing to fit in for those who have very busy schedules.

8. Barenbrug Free Range Ground Cover Forage

If you are looking for grass to feed livestock, the Barenbrug Free Range Ground Cover Forage is exactly what you want. You can now provide your livestock animals with a feast with this product. Not only will it look good on your farm, but it is also the ideal fit for chickens, game birds, goats, and sheep.

First of all, you will see that the seeds germinate within two weeks of you planting them. They will grow quickly, and this factor is essential since you have livestock feeding on them. Perfect for lawns, pastures, forage, and fields, this can be planted anywhere you need.

It is also used by clubs to plant on golf fields. Since golf courses need a thick layer of grass which is medium-sized, this fits the requirement perfectly. Vineyards use this grass to line their pathway, and it enhances the look to a great extent.

Besides, the seeds are a mix of many varieties of grass and will provide you with a great combination. This provides a variety of nutrients to the ones eating it as well as is a healthy addition to the soil.

You will have to be very careful while planting the seeds. Follow the instructions carefully while doing it; otherwise, they will not germinate. We have had patches where the grass did not grow, and we had to replant it again.

9. X-Seed 440FS0021UCT185

Do you want to cover an area that has been barren for a long time? The X-Seed 440FS0021UCT185 will help you do just that with its improved and modified seed mix. They are endophyte-free and are capable of absorbing and retaining moisture well.

This will provide you with the perfect way to rejuvenate old fields, which have become barren over time. It can grow in compact soil as well as dry soil. We have even used this in high-traffic areas, and it has worked wonders.

The seeds are also known to germinate quickly and will provide palatable foliage within weeks. It is equipped with micro boost technology, which is a specialized nutrient delivery system that is provided to every seed. This will make a nutrient-friendly zone and cover the seed safely, allowing it to live on dry soil.

It consists of a mix of 15% Maximo intermediate ryegrass, 3% clover, 20% orchard grass, 49% gulf annual ryegrass, and 13% intermediate ryegrass/. This will provide a thick layer of grass that can cover an area of 1 acre and make the soil healthy again.

While this is perfectly suitable for adverse weather conditions, it is not a good fit for wet climates. In case your area sees a lot of rainfall, there will be too much moisture, and the seeds will not be able to survive in it. So, make a note of this before making any kind of purchase.

Best Grass Seed Comparison Table

Buying Guide For Best Grass Seed

Now that you have gone through the 11 top products, you will know that each one is unique in its way. There are variations in moisture retention capacity, area coverage, and types of mixes.

To help you out, we have put together a list of vital attributes that you must consider before buying any of these options. Take a look now. We hope this guides you toward buying the one that fits the best.

Soil Compatibility

It is important that you check the kind of soil that you are dealing with and then buy seeds accordingly. There are some which will help you cover barren lands while there are some which require good amounts of rainfall to survive.

Most seeds will work with sandy soil and clay, but it is best to read the description carefully before purchasing.

Area Coverage

Seeds come in different packet sizes, and you should first measure the area that needs to be covered. If the area is large, buy a bigger packet and also make sure that the variety does not need intricate care. Watering a large area twice a day will be very tough, and you will not be able to fit it in with a busy schedule.

If the area exceeds 2000 sq. feet, it is best to opt for grass, which will suit dry soil and can survive drought-like conditions. This will ensure that they stay alive and healthy, even when not watered daily.

Germination Period

How long are you willing to wait for the grass to grow? If you want foliage for the livestock, you will need seeds that germinate quickly. While some can start growing in 5 days, others can take 2 weeks or longer to show any kind of growth.

In case you want a product for roadsides or highways, it is best to choose a slow-growing version that will take its time to grow. This will ensure that you do not have to trim regularly.

What is the best time to plant grass seeds?

The ideal time to plant grass seeds depends on the climate of the region and the type of grass. Most cool-season grasses (like Kentucky Bluegrass or Tall Fescue) should be planted during early spring or early fall, while warm-season grasses (like Bermuda or Centipede) should be planted in late spring or early summer.

How long does it take for grass seeds to germinate?

The germination time for grass seeds varies depending on the type of grass and environmental conditions. Generally, it can range from 5 to 30 days.

Some fast-germinating grasses like perennial ryegrass can sprout within 5-7 days, while others like Kentucky Bluegrass might take 14-30 days to germinate.

How often should I water my grass seeds?

Newly planted grass seeds require frequent, shallow watering to ensure even and consistent moisture in the topsoil. You should water newly seeded areas at least twice a day for the first two weeks.

Once the seeds have germinated and the grass starts to grow, you can reduce the frequency of watering to allow for deeper root growth.

Should I use a starter fertilizer when planting grass seeds?

Using a starter fertilizer when planting grass seeds can encourage faster germination and healthier root development. A high-quality starter fertilizer, typically low in nitrogen and high in phosphorus, helps promote root growth and the establishment of newly seeded grass.

Apply the starter fertilizer according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

How much grass seed do I need for my lawn?

The amount of grass seed required depends on the size of the area to be seeded and the seed application rate. Generally, cool-season grasses require about 3-5 pounds of seed per 1,000 square feet, while warm-season grasses may require 1-2 pounds per 1,000 square feet.

To calculate the amount needed, measure the area’s square footage and multiply by the recommended seeding rate. Always refer to the grass seed label for specific application rates.

Conclusion

After careful consideration, testing, and in-depth reviews, we chose the top three grass seeds that stood out based on various factors. Jonathan Green 10322 Black Beauty is a good option for those seeking a beautiful dark green lawn. Its mix of elite Kentucky Bluegrass, Black Beauty Tall Fescues, and elite Perennial Ryegrass works exceptionally well in both clay and sandy soils, ensuring an insect-resistant, vibrant lawn in warmer climates

Scotts Turf Builder Heat-Tolerant Blue Mix is a good option for homeowners seeking thick and durable grass capable of retaining moisture, even in drought-prone regions, while tolerating heat and traffic.

Lastly, the DLF 216AX004UCT198 Premium Oregon Grown Kentucky is the right choice for even grass coverage on large lawns, with seeds that can survive both hot and cold temperatures, making it suitable for athletic fields, public spaces, and extreme climates.

As you embark on your journey to create the perfect outdoor space, remember that selecting the ideal grass seed is just the beginning. Proper care and maintenance, including watering, fertilizing, and mowing, will ensure your lawn remains healthy and gorgeous over time.

With this, we will take our leave. Happy gardening!

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