DIY Calculator

Lawn Seed Calculator

Estimate grass seed for a new lawn or full renovation by lawn size and grass type.

Understanding seed rates

  • Square footage

    Length × width is your baseline for every material estimate — seed, fertilizer, and water all scale from this number.

  • Grass type

    Cool-season grasses like tall fescue need far more seed per 1,000 sq ft than Kentucky bluegrass or warm-season varieties.

  • New-lawn rate

    Bare-ground seeding uses the full rate because every inch of soil needs seed-to-soil contact for germination.

  • Buy extra

    Plan for 10–15% more seed to cover overlap passes, windy days, and spots the spreader misses.

FAQ

How much grass seed do I need per 1,000 sq ft?
It depends on the grass type. Tall fescue and ryegrass often need about 8 lb per 1,000 sq ft for a new lawn. Kentucky bluegrass is lower, around 2–3 lb. This calculator uses common homeowner seeding rates.
Should I buy extra seed?
Yes. Buy 10–15% extra for overlap, missed spots, and bird loss — especially on slopes or windy days.