How Fast Will Grass Seed Germinate?

Soil, moisture and temperature affect the rate of grass seed germination.

Germination occurs when grass seed absorbs enough moisture to start sprouting. Too much water will make the seed rot, and too little causes it to dry out and die. It takes grass seed a varying amount of time to germinate, depending on the type of grass.

Time Frame

Fescues and rye grass germinate the fastest. Fescue takes an average of seven to 15 days and rye grass takes five to 10 days. Bentgrass and bermuda grass can germinate as quickly as 10 days. Buffalo grass and centipede grass sprout in two to four weeks, while bluegrass can take up to one month.

Considerations

Choose a grass seed that has a high germination rate specified on the package. The preferred rate is 90 to 95 percent, but some varieties will be closer to the 80 percent range.

Test

Sow a sample area of grass seed so you know what the germination rate will be, based on your growing conditions. Plant the seeds in a pot or protected area. The seeds should sprout a few days before the rest of the lawn, because the soil is warmer. This gives you an idea of the germination process.

References

• University of California Integrated Pest Management Program: Grass Seed Germination Rates
• All About Lawns: Grass Seed Germination: Is Yours on Schedule?
• Lawn 123: Grass Seed Germination