How many pounds of grass seed for 1,000 sq ft?
Quick Answer
New lawns need 3–8 pounds of grass seed per 1,000 square feet depending on the grass species. Kentucky bluegrass and fine fescue require about 3–4 lbs; tall fescue and ryegrass need 6–8 lbs. For overseeding an existing lawn, use half the new-lawn rate (1–4 lbs per 1,000 sq ft).
Quick Reference Table
| Grass type | Seed rate per 1,000 sq ft |
|---|---|
| Kentucky Bluegrass | 3–4 lbs (new), 1–2 lbs (overseed) |
| Fine Fescue | 3–5 lbs (new), 1–2 lbs (overseed) |
| Tall Fescue | 6–8 lbs (new), 3–4 lbs (overseed) |
| Perennial Ryegrass | 6–8 lbs (new), 3–4 lbs (overseed) |
| Bermuda (hulled) | 1–2 lbs (new) |
| Zoysia | 1–2 lbs (new) |
How to Calculate It Yourself
- 1
Identify your grass species from the seed bag or your existing lawn.
- 2
Determine if you're seeding a new lawn or overseeding.
- 3
Multiply your area (sq ft) by the seeding rate (lbs per 1,000 sq ft) ÷ 1,000.
- 4
Example: 5,000 sq ft of new tall fescue lawn → 5,000 × 7 ÷ 1,000 = 35 lbs.
Pro Tip
Split seeding into two passes at right angles to each other for more even coverage. Use a broadcast spreader — hand-throwing leads to bare patches and clumps.
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