Best Cool Season Grass Seed (2023 Update)

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If you're looking for the best cool season grass seed, there are a few factors you need to consider before making a purchase. First, you should determine your landscaping goals. Do you want a lush green lawn? Are you looking for a grass seed that requires less water or maintenance? Next, you'll want to pay attention to the seed's germination rate and recommended planting time. This will ensure that you get the most out of your purchase and that your seed has the best chance of success.

When searching for the best cool season grass seed, you should also consider the climate and location where you plan to plant. Certain varieties perform better in specific zones and soil types. Additionally, think about any potential issues, such as poor drainage or exposure to direct sunlight, that may affect your seed's growth.

So, what are some questions you should ask yourself before buying the best cool season grass seed? Are you looking for a specific type of grass, such as Kentucky Bluegrass or Perennial Ryegrass? How much sunlight does the area receive? Do you have any pets or children who will be playing on the lawn? Answering these questions can help you make an informed decision and choose the best cool season grass seed for your needs.

10 Best Cool Season Grass Seed

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Ideal for creating a high-quality lawn with fine, soft-textured grass that is perfect for cooler seasons.
2
This product is ideal for creating a fine-textured, cool-season lawn or turf grass.
3
Ideal for cool season lawn seed growth in pastures and fields.
4
Ideal for growing a lush, dark green lawn with improved grass seed varieties that offer superior disease resistance and drought tolerance.
5
Ideal for growing native grasses in the Southeastern region with a mix of warm and cool-season varieties. Suitable for large yards.
6
This product is ideal for repairing and filling in bare spots in a cool season lawn.
7
The product is ideal for growing green grass quickly using a combination of seed and fertilizer.
8
This grass seed is ideal for growing a cool season lawn.
9
This product is ideal for growing a lush and durable lawn in southern regions with varying degrees of sun exposure.
10
Ideal for growing grass in shady areas during cool seasons.
Ideal for creating a high-quality lawn with fine, soft-textured grass that is perfect for cooler seasons.
This product is ideal for creating a fine-textured, cool-season lawn or turf grass.
Ideal for cool season lawn seed growth in pastures and fields.
Ideal for growing a lush, dark green lawn with improved grass seed varieties that offer superior disease resistance and drought tolerance.
Ideal for growing native grasses in the Southeastern region with a mix of warm and cool-season varieties. Suitable for large yards.
This product is ideal for repairing and filling in bare spots in a cool season lawn.
The product is ideal for growing green grass quickly using a combination of seed and fertilizer.
This product is ideal for growing a lush and durable lawn in southern regions with varying degrees of sun exposure.

1. Midnight Cool Season Lawn Seed – 10 Lbs.

Midnight Kentucky bluegrass seed is a highly rated and popular perennial grass seed that is widely used in the United States for its exceptional qualities. This grass seed has been evaluated in numerous NTEP evaluations and has consistently proven to be a top choice for lawns in the northern or transition zone.

One of the key features of this grass seed is its beautiful dark green color and soft texture. It creates a thick carpet that has an unusually dark rich blue-green color, making it a visually appealing addition to any lawn. Additionally, this grass seed has a slow growth habit, making it easy to maintain and manage.

Midnight Kentucky bluegrass seed is also highly tolerant to drought and disease, making it a low-maintenance option for homeowners, parks, golf courses, and athletic fields. It can withstand high traffic and remains thick and lush, even in harsh weather conditions.

This grass seed is extremely cold tolerant, making it an excellent choice for areas with harsh winters. It has been proven to withstand the coldest temperatures, ensuring that your lawn remains green and healthy all year round.

To plant a new lawn using Midnight Kentucky bluegrass seed, it is recommended to sow 2 to 3 pounds per 1,000 square feet of this top-rated seed. With more than 15 years of proven excellence, this grass seed is an ideal choice for anyone looking to establish a beautiful and easy-to-maintain lawn.

2. Outsidepride Kentucky Bluegrass Cool Season Fine, Soft Textured Lawn, Turf Grass Seed Blend – 25 Lbs

Bluegrass Supreme is a versatile and high-quality grass that is perfect for use in a range of settings. With its fine, dark green blades, it is a great choice for use in USDA Zones 3-8, where it can thrive in a variety of climates.

One of the key benefits of Bluegrass Supreme is its fine-bladed texture, which allows it to blend seamlessly with other grasses like ryegrass and fine fescue. This makes it an excellent choice for use in lawns, sports fields, and golf roughs, where a seamless, even appearance is essential.

Bluegrass Supreme is also known for its strong creeping growth habit, which is due to its rhizomes – underground stems that allow the grass to spread and establish quickly. This makes it an ideal choice for use in new turf installations, where quick establishment is key.

When it comes to planting Bluegrass Supreme, the recommended seeding rate is 2-3 pounds per 1,000 square feet or 80-120 lbs per acre for new turf installations. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your Bluegrass Supreme will establish quickly and grow into a lush, vibrant lawn that will be the envy of your neighborhood.

3. Jonathan Green (11621) Pasture Grass Mixture – Cool Season Lawn Seed (25 Lb)

This cool-season grass seed is specifically designed for horses, cattle, sheep, and other grazing livestock. The Pasture Grass Mixture contains elite forage grasses that are not only palatable, but also easy for grazing animals to digest. This makes it an ideal choice for paddocks and pastures.

The grass seed is suitable for use in full sun to partial-shaded areas, providing complete coverage for up to 21,780 sq. ft. with a 25 lb bag. With a germination time of 10-14 days, the Pasture Grass Mixture is perfect for overseeding or newly seeding 10,890 sq. ft. of land.

One of the best things about this grass mixture is that it is endophyte-free. Endophytes are known to cause illness in some grazing animals, particularly if their diet is heavy in endophytic turfgrasses. This makes the Pasture Grass Mixture a safe and healthy choice for grazing horses and other livestock.

4. Jonathan Green Black Beauty Ultra Grass Seed, 1-Pound (1-Pound 2-Pack)

Introducing the premium quality grass seed mix that is perfect for your lawn – the 2 Pack of Species-Diverse Grass Seed Mix! This carefully crafted blend contains a variety of high-quality grass species, including the Black Beauty Tall Fescues, elite Kentucky Bluegrass, and elite Perennial Ryegrass, to provide you with a lush and vibrant lawn.

Designed to cover up to 400 square feet, this grass seed mix is perfect for larger lawns, gardens, and even commercial spaces. With its naturally insect-resistant properties, you can rest assured that your lawn will be healthy and free of pests.

Whether you have clay or sandy soil, or full sun or partial shade, this grass seed mix will thrive and produce a beautiful, dark-green color. It has been specially crafted to adapt to various environmental conditions, making it a versatile choice for any lawn or garden.

So, if you're looking for a premium-quality grass seed mix that is easy to use and provides excellent results, look no further than the Species-Diverse Grass Seed Mix 2 Pack. With its high-quality grass species, natural insect resistance, and adaptability to various environmental conditions, it is the perfect choice for any lawn enthusiast. Order yours today and experience the difference for yourself!

5. 1 Oz Native Grass Seed Mix,southeast,warm & Cool-Season Grasses,1/2 Lbs/1,000 Sqft

This product boasts a high-quality and reliable groundcover solution for your lawn. Manufactured in the United States, the Grass Seeds brand is known for producing top-tier lawn care products. The MPN for this product is Groundcover, indicating its suitability for use as groundcover.

With a Patternname of 1oz Seeds, this product is carefully measured and packaged for ease of use. The 1oz Seeds are guaranteed to provide ample coverage for your lawn, giving it the lush and healthy look you desire.

The Transition Zone model of this product is specifically designed to thrive in areas with moderate weather conditions. This makes it an ideal choice for those living in regions with varying climates.

6. Jonathan Green (12140) Touch-Up Tri-Rye Perennial Ryegrass Grass Seed – Cool Season Lawn Seed (7 Lb)

Introducing Touch-Up TRI-RYE Grass Seed, a 100% blend of perennial ryegrass that contains three quick-germinating, turf-type varieties. This cool-season grass seed quickly thickens your lawn by germinating in just 7-10 days, allowing you to fill in bare spots and achieve a lush lawn in no time.

This grass seed blend is also great for overseeding warm-season grasses in the fall, providing a green carpet during the winter months and receding when the warm-season grasses start growing again. The result is a healthy, dense, and attractive turf with a dark-green color that grows well in full sun to moderate shade.

For best results, apply Touch-Up TRI-RYE Grass Seed mid-August to mid-October or mid-March through mid-May. This 7 lb bag provides complete coverage of up to 1,750 sq. ft. for new lawns and up to 3,500 sq. ft. for overseeding.

Trust the Touch-Up TRI-RYE Grass Seed to give you a beautiful and healthy lawn with complete coverage.

7. Greenify Your Lawn In Weeks With Turf Builder!

Introducing the Scotts Turf Builder Rapid Grass Sun & Shade Mix – the perfect solution for those looking to grow a lush, green lawn in a matter of weeks. This revolutionary mix of seed and fertilizer is designed to help you achieve full, green grass up to 2X times faster than seed alone, making it ideal for large problem areas in your lawn or establishing new grass.

This lawn care product is incredibly easy to use. Simply apply it in the spring or fall when temperatures are between 60°F and 80°F, and watch your lawn transform before your eyes. With proper care, this mix will result in a beautiful, healthy lawn that you can be proud of.

Each 16 lb. bag of Scotts Turf Builder Rapid Grass Sun & Shade Mix has a new lawn coverage of 2,395 sq. ft. and an overseeding coverage of 8,000 sq. ft., making it ideal for both small and large lawns. Plus, this product may be available in your area, so be sure to check availability before you buy.

8. Jonathan Green (10810) Fast Grow Grass Seed – Cool Season Lawn Seed (25 Lb)

The Fast Grow Grass Seed Mixture is an ideal solution for those who wish to achieve a hardy turf in a short amount of time. This mixture is perfect for both sun and shade areas, making it a versatile choice for a variety of outdoor spaces.

One of the most notable features of this product is its quick germination period. With a germination time of just 7-14 days, users can expect to see results in a relatively short amount of time. This is due to the unique blend of seeds that make up this fast-growing mixture.

The Fast Grow Grass Seed Mixture is available in a 25-pound size, making it suitable for larger outdoor spaces. This generous size ensures that users have enough seed to cover a larger area, making it a cost-effective choice for those who want to achieve a beautiful lawn without breaking the bank.

Whether you are looking to achieve a lush, green outdoor space or simply want to revitalize your existing lawn, the Fast Grow Grass Seed Mixture is an excellent choice. Its unique blend of seeds ensures that you can achieve a hardy turf quickly in both sun and shade areas, providing a beautiful outdoor space that you can enjoy for years to come.

9. Pennington Smart Seed Sun And Shade Tall Fescue Grass Seed Mix For Southern Lawns 20 Lb

Looking for the perfect grass seed and fertilizer mix for your southern Tall Fescue lawn? Look no further than this specially-formulated product, which includes just the right amount of fertilizer to help your lawn thrive. Whether your lawn receives sun in some parts and moderate shade in others, this grass seed is designed to provide optimal growth and performance.

This grass seed and fertilizer mix is ideal for areas getting 4 to 6 hours of sunlight, and is specifically designed to survive in hot, humid, and harsh conditions. With this product, you can save up to 30% more water year after year versus ordinary grass seed, making it a cost-effective and environmentally-friendly choice.

The grass seed and fertilizer mix is guaranteed to grow, and you can expect to see results in as little as 8 to 21 days. Each bag covers up to 5,000 sq. ft., so you'll have plenty of coverage for even larger lawns.

If you want a lush, green lawn that looks great year-round, this grass seed and fertilizer mix is the perfect choice. With its optimal combination of fertilizer and grass seed, it is sure to help your lawn succeed and thrive. So why wait? Order your bag today and get ready to enjoy a beautiful, healthy lawn in no time!

10. Jonathan Green (11959) Black Beauty Shady Nooks Grass Seed – Cool Season Lawn Seed (7 Lb)

Introducing the Black Beauty Shady Nooks Grass Seed, a premium grass seed mixture that is specially formulated to thrive in deeply shaded lawns. This product is perfect for those who have struggled with growing grass in wet and dry shady areas where other turfgrass mixtures have failed.

This cool-season grass seed mix contains a unique blend of tall fescues, perennial rye, and fine fescue turfgrass varieties. This combination allows the shady seed mixture to grow in deep shade right up to the base of trees. Additionally, this product requires less fertilizer and water than competitor's grass seed mixtures, making it an excellent choice for those looking to save time and money.

Not only is the Black Beauty Shady Nooks Grass Seed easy to maintain, but it also produces healthy, dense, and attractive turf with a dark-green color. The best time to apply this product is mid-August to mid-October, or mid-March through mid-May.

Each 7-pound bag of this grass seed mix provides complete coverage for up to 2,625 sq. ft. for new lawns. For overseeding, this bag will seed up to 5,250 sq. ft. The germination time for Black Beauty Shady Nooks Grass Seed Mix is 10 to 20 days, ensuring that your lawn will be lush and green in no time.

Best Cool Season Grass Seed FAQs

Can I mix different types of cool season grass seed together?

Yes, you can mix different types of cool season grass seed together. In fact, many lawn care experts recommend mixing different types of grass seed to create a thicker, more resilient lawn. Cool season grasses such as Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, and fine fescue can be mixed together to provide a variety of benefits such as improved drought resistance, disease resistance, and better traffic tolerance.

However, it is important to keep in mind that different grass species have different growth rates, textures, and colors. So, if you are mixing grass seed, try to choose varieties that are compatible in terms of their growth habits and appearance. Additionally, be sure to follow the recommended seeding rates for each type of grass seed and prepare the soil properly before seeding to ensure the best results.

How do I care for my lawn after planting cool season grass seed?

After planting cool season grass seed, it is important to take the necessary steps to properly care for your lawn to ensure successful growth. Here are some tips on how to care for your lawn after planting cool season grass seed:

1. Watering: Water your lawn regularly to keep the soil moist. Watering should be done in the morning or evening to prevent evaporation.

2. Mowing: Mow your lawn once the grass reaches a height of about 3 inches. Be sure to use a sharp mower blade to prevent damaging the grass.

3. Fertilizing: Apply a slow-release fertilizer to your lawn after the grass has germinated. This will provide the necessary nutrients for healthy growth.

4. Weed Control: Keep an eye out for weeds and remove them as soon as possible to prevent them from competing with the new grass for nutrients.

5. Aeration: Depending on the soil type, aerating your lawn can help improve the soil structure and promote healthy root growth.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your cool season grass seed will grow into a healthy and lush lawn.

How do I choose the best cool season grass seed for my lawn?

Choosing the best cool season grass seed for your lawn can be a daunting task, but there are several factors to consider before making a decision. The first factor to consider is your climate zone, as different grass varieties thrive in different temperatures. For instance, if you live in a region with cold winters and hot summers, you may want to consider a grass variety that can tolerate extreme temperatures.

Another factor to consider is the amount of sunlight your lawn receives. Some grasses require full sun, while others can tolerate partial shade. It is important to choose a grass variety that matches the amount of sunlight your lawn receives to ensure optimal growth.

You should also consider the intended use of your lawn. For example, if you have children or pets, you may want to choose a grass variety that is durable and can withstand heavy foot traffic.

Lastly, consider the maintenance requirements of the grass variety you choose. Some grasses require more frequent watering and mowing than others. Choose a grass variety that fits your lifestyle and maintenance preferences.

Overall, selecting the best cool season grass seed for your lawn requires careful consideration of several factors. Take the time to research and choose a grass variety that matches your climate zone, sunlight exposure, intended use, and maintenance preferences.

How long does it take for cool season grass seed to germinate?

The germination time for cool season grass seed can vary depending on various factors such as the type of grass, soil temperature, moisture, and sunlight. Typically, cool season grass seed takes 5-10 days to germinate after sowing. However, some types of grasses such as Kentucky bluegrass may take up to three weeks to germinate.

To ensure optimal germination, it is essential to prepare the soil by removing any debris, rocks, or weeds. The soil should be moist, but not waterlogged, and temperatures should be between 60-75°F. Once the seed has been sown, it should be lightly covered with soil and kept moist until germination occurs.

It is important to note that while the seed may germinate within a week, it may take several weeks for the grass to establish fully. During this time, it is essential to water regularly and avoid mowing until the grass has reached a height of at least 3 inches.

How much cool season grass seed do I need to plant per square foot?

The recommended amount of cool season grass seed to plant per square foot depends on the specific type of grass you are planting. Generally, most cool season grass species require 15 to 30 seeds per square foot. However, some species may require more or less depending on the size of the seeds.

It is important to follow the instructions on the seed packaging as they will provide specific recommendations for the particular grass species you are planting. Over-seeding or under-seeding can affect the growth and health of the grass, so it is important to follow the recommended seeding rate.

Another factor to consider is the use of the area where you are planting the grass. If you are planting in a high-traffic area, it may be beneficial to plant at a higher seeding rate to ensure the grass can withstand wear and tear.

In summary, the recommended amount of cool season grass seed to plant per square foot is typically 15 to 30 seeds, but it is important to follow the instructions on the seed packaging for the specific grass species you are planting.

What are some common problems with cool season grass seed and how can I prevent them?

Cool season grasses are popular for their ability to thrive in cooler climates and provide a lush green lawn. However, they can face some common problems that can hinder their growth and appearance. Here are some of the most common problems with cool season grass seed and how to prevent them:

1. Poor soil preparation: The soil should be properly prepared before planting cool season grass seed. The soil should be loosened, leveled, and amended with organic matter to provide good drainage, aeration, and nutrients.

2. Inadequate watering: Cool season grass seed requires consistent moisture to germinate and establish. Water the seeds lightly and frequently to keep the soil moist until the grass has established.

3. Over-fertilization: Over-fertilization can damage the grass and cause it to grow too quickly, leading to weak roots and susceptibility to disease. Use a slow-release fertilizer and follow the recommended application rates.

4. Disease: Cool season grasses can be susceptible to diseases such as brown patch and dollar spot. Proper watering, mowing, and fertilization practices can help prevent disease.

5. Pests: Pests such as grubs and chinch bugs can damage cool season grasses. Use insecticides only when necessary and follow the recommended application rates.

By following these preventive measures, you can ensure that your cool season grass seed grows into a healthy and vibrant lawn.

What are some tips for planting cool season grass seed?

Planting cool season grass seed can be a great way to enhance the beauty of your lawn during the fall or spring season. Here are some tips that can help you get started:

1. Choose the right time: Plant the cool season grass seed during the fall or spring season when the temperature is between 60-75°F. This will ensure the seed gets the right amount of moisture and sunlight it needs for germination.

2. Prepare the soil: Check the soil pH level and make sure it is between 6.0 to 7.5. Loosen the soil and remove any debris or weeds that may hinder the growth of the grass seed.

3. Seed distribution: Use a spreader to distribute the seed evenly across the lawn. Make sure to follow the recommended seeding rate on the seed bag.

4. Watering: Water the newly seeded area frequently to keep the soil moist but not overly saturated. This will help to promote germination.

5. Maintenance: Once the grass seed germinates, reduce the frequency of watering but increase the duration of watering. Keep the grass trimmed to a height of 2-3 inches and fertilize as per the recommended schedule.

By following these tips, you can ensure a successful planting of cool season grass seed and enjoy a beautiful lawn throughout the year.

What are the benefits of planting cool season grass seed?

Planting cool season grass seed offers a number of benefits. Firstly, these grasses are adapted to cooler climates and grow best in regions with moderate temperatures. They are often used in areas where winters are cold and summers are mild, and can withstand frost and snow. Secondly, cool season grasses are hardy and drought-resistant, making them a great choice for areas that experience dry spells or water restrictions. They also have a deep root system, which helps them to access water and nutrients from deeper soil layers. Thirdly, cool season grasses grow quickly and provide early spring green-up, which means they can be enjoyed earlier in the season. Finally, these grasses are often low-maintenance and require minimal watering and fertilization, making them an environmentally-friendly choice. Overall, planting cool season grass seed can provide a beautiful, resilient, and low-maintenance lawn.

What are the best cool season grass seed varieties?

Cool season grasses are a great choice for regions with colder temperatures and a lot of precipitation. Here are some of the best cool season grass seed varieties:

1. Kentucky Bluegrass: This is a popular cool season grass that is known for its dark green color, fine texture, and ability to self-repair.

2. Perennial Ryegrass: This grass seed variety is known for its quick germination and establishment, making it a great choice for overseeding or repairing damaged areas.

3. Fine Fescue: This grass seed variety is known for its shade tolerance and ability to grow in poor soil conditions. It includes several sub-species such as creeping red fescue, chewings fescue, and hard fescue.

4. Tall Fescue: This grass seed variety is known for its drought tolerance and deep root system. It is a good choice for high traffic areas and can also be used for erosion control.

5. Bentgrass: This grass seed variety is known for its fine texture and ability to create a dense, uniform turf. It is often used on golf courses and other sports fields.

When choosing a cool season grass seed variety, it is important to consider the specific growing conditions and needs of your lawn.

What is the ideal time of year to plant cool season grass seed?

The ideal time to plant cool season grass seed is during the fall season, when the soil is still warm but the air temperature is starting to cool down. This period is usually between mid-August to mid-September. Planting during the fall allows the seeds to establish a strong root system before the winter frost sets in. The cool season grass seed types include fescue, bluegrass, and ryegrass. These grasses thrive in cooler temperatures and can withstand frost and snow. Planting during the spring season is also an option, but it’s not as ideal as it may take longer for the seeds to germinate and establish due to the warmer temperature. It’s important to prepare the soil properly before planting by removing any weeds and debris and ensuring that the soil is loose and well-drained. Additionally, watering regularly after planting is crucial for the seeds to germinate and establish.

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