10 Best Grass Seed For Michigan (2024 Update)

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If you’re looking for lush green lawns that will enhance the beauty of your home, then you should consider investing in the right grass seed for Michigan. The right seed will ensure that your lawn remains green and healthy throughout the year, even in the harsh winter conditions of Michigan. But with so many options available in the market, how do you know which one to choose?

While choosing the best grass seed for Michigan, keep in mind the region's weather conditions, soil type, and the use of the lawn. Different grass seed varieties thrive in different conditions, so it's important to pick the one that's suited for your area. Some other factors worth considering are the germination rate, maintenance requirements, and the overall cost of the seed.

Are you worried about the harsh winters ruining your lawn? Do you want to know how to choose drought-resistant grass seed varieties that can withstand the long hot summers? Are you curious about the different types of grass seed available in the market, and which one will be the best fit for your lawn? If any of these questions pique your interest, then keep reading. We have everything you need to know about choosing the right grass seed for Michigan, so you can have the greenest and healthiest lawn on the block.

10 Best Grass Seed For Michigan

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
This product is ideal for creating a lush, soft and shade-tolerant lawn grass.
2
Ideal for growing healthy, drought-tolerant and disease-resistant tall fescue lawns that can withstand high temperatures.
3
The product is ideal for repairing sun-damaged or shaded areas of lawns.
4
Ideal for planting high-quality tall fescue grass without fillers, weed or other crop seeds, certified for state standards.
5
This product is ideal for growing cool season grass in areas with dense shade.
6
This product is ideal for high traffic areas and controlling erosion on lawns up to 1,249 sq. ft.
7
Ideal for repairing and revitalizing lawns damaged by summer stress with a high-quality grass seed mixture.
8
Ideal for Northeastern climates, drought-prone areas, and covering large lawn spaces.
9
Ideal for cool season lawns and providing a lush, green and thick lawn.
10
The product is ideal for growing a cool season lawn with high-quality grass.
This product is ideal for creating a lush, soft and shade-tolerant lawn grass.
Ideal for growing healthy, drought-tolerant and disease-resistant tall fescue lawns that can withstand high temperatures.
The product is ideal for repairing sun-damaged or shaded areas of lawns.
Ideal for planting high-quality tall fescue grass without fillers, weed or other crop seeds, certified for state standards.
This product is ideal for growing cool season grass in areas with dense shade.
This product is ideal for high traffic areas and controlling erosion on lawns up to 1,249 sq. ft.
Ideal for repairing and revitalizing lawns damaged by summer stress with a high-quality grass seed mixture.
Ideal for Northeastern climates, drought-prone areas, and covering large lawn spaces.
Ideal for cool season lawns and providing a lush, green and thick lawn.
The product is ideal for growing a cool season lawn with high-quality grass.

1. Outsidepride Legacy Fine Fescue Shade Tolerant, Soft, Turf, Lawn Grass Seed Blend – 5 Lbs

Legacy fine fescue grass seed is a top-quality perennial option for those who are looking for a lush, green lawn, park, or golf course with a fine bladed seed that is absolutely stunning. This lawn seed blend is perfect for cooler climates and grows well in full sun or in areas with partial shade. However, it may not perform well in the deep South due to the hot climate. It is ideal for the northern and transition zones where cold-tolerant grass is a must. The blend consists of hard fescue, chewings fescue, and creeping red fescue, which gives an immaculate lawn with a blend of striking shades of green. Fine fescues are well-known for performing well in soils with low-fertility, making it an excellent option for those who are looking for a low-maintenance lawn. For new turf, sow 4 – 5 lbs per 1,000 square feet of the lawn you desire.

Pros

  • Perennial grass option that provides a lush, green lawn
  • Grows well in full sun or partial shade
  • Ideal for cooler climates and northern and transition zones
  • Blend consists of hard fescue, chewings fescue, and creeping red fescue, which gives an immaculate lawn with striking shades of green
  • Fine fescues are well-known for performing well in soils with low-fertility, making it an excellent option for those who are looking for a low-maintenance lawn

Cons

  • – May not perform well in the deep South due to the hot climate.

2. Scotts Turf Builder Grass Seed Heat-Tolerant Blue Mix For Tall Fescue Lawns Resistant To Heat, Drought, And Disease, 3 Lbs.

This seed mix is ideal for areas that receive full sun and partial shade, and is highly resistant to drought. The 4 in 1 WaterSmart PLUS Coating feature ensures that the seeds absorb more water than uncoated seed, providing essential nutrients and protecting seedlings from disease. This coating keeps the seed moist for a longer period of time than uncoated seed, and feeds the seed to kickstart growth. The mix includes a combination of tall fescue and bluegrass seed, which results in deep roots and high durability. This package is suitable for seeding up to 750 square feet.

Pros

  • Highly drought-resistant
  • WaterSmart PLUS Coating absorbs more water than uncoated seed
  • Feeds seedlings with essential nutrients and protects them from disease
  • Tall fescue and bluegrass seed mix results in deep roots and durability

3. Scotts Patchmaster Lawn Repair Mix Sun And Shade Mix, 4.75 Lb.

Looking for an easy and quick way to repair bare spots on your lawn? Look no further than this all-in-one bare spot repair product. With an improved easy to spread formula, it's now easier than ever to apply and get the results you want. This product also boasts an impressive growing time of just 7 days, so you can start to see results in no time. Plus, it's designed to absorb 3x its weight in water, which helps to keep the seeds moist and promote healthy growth. And, with feeding that lasts up to 6 weeks, you can be sure that your lawn is getting the nutrients it needs to thrive.

Pros

  • Improved easy to spread formula for quick and easy application
  • Starts to grow in as few as 7 days
  • Absorbs 3x its weight in water to keep seeds moist and promote growth
  • Feeds up to 6 weeks for long-lasting results

4. Kentucky 31 K31 Tall Fescue Grass Seed By Eretz – Choose Size! State Certified, No Fillers, No Weed Or Other Crop Seeds (25lbs)

Eretz's grass seed is an extremely durable and hardy option that is perfect for a variety of applications. It is drought tolerant, making it a great choice for areas that may not receive consistent moisture. This grass seed is ideal for areas that will receive some foot traffic or other abuses, including general turf, sod waterways, and in and around corrals/barnyards. It can also be used for sodded driveways, lanes, roads, and many other purposes.

Additionally, this grass seed is an excellent choice for forage grass in pastures and for wildlife. It has been tested to be at least 98% pure seed, with less than 2% inert matter and free from weed and other crop seeds. This ensures that you are getting a high-quality product that will grow into a lush and healthy lawn or pasture.

One important thing to note is that K31 counterfeits are a real threat in the grass seed market. However, Eretz's seed is State Certified, giving you confidence in the authenticity of the product. Overall, Eretz's grass seed is a reliable and versatile option for anyone in need of a durable and high-quality grass seed.

Pros

  • Drought tolerant, making it a great choice for areas that may not receive consistent moisture
  • Ideal for areas that will receive some foot traffic or other abuses
  • Excellent forage grass for pastures and wildlife
  • Tested to be at least 98% pure seed

Cons

  • – None that are apparent

5. Jonathan Green (10610) Black Beauty Dense Shade Grass Seed – Cool Season Lawn Seed (25 Lb)

Looking for a grass seed mix that is perfect for areas with limited sunlight? Look no further than this shade-tolerant grass seed! Designed specifically for lawns with large trees, shrubs, or shaded areas, this mix contains grass seeds that can thrive even in areas with limited penetration of sunlight. With this mix, you can enjoy a healthy, dense, and attractive turf with a dark-green color.

This grass seed mix germinates and establishes quickly, with a germination time of 14 – 21 days. It also contains beneficial endophytes that promote healthy growth. The mix features four families of cool-season turfgrasses, including turf-type tall fescue, Kentucky bluegrass, perennial rye, and fine fescues. This creates great versatility in shady to partial sun lawns.

This 25 lb bag provides complete coverage for up to 7,500 sq. ft. for new lawns and up to 15,000 sq. ft. for overseeding. For best results, it is recommended to apply the mix mid-August to mid-October, or mid-March through mid-May. With its shade-tolerant grass seeds and rich, dark green color, this grass seed mix is an excellent choice for anyone looking to improve the appearance and health of their lawn.

Pros

  • Contains shade-tolerant grass seeds that thrive in areas with limited sunlight
  • Produces healthy, dense, and attractive turf with a dark-green color
  • Germinates and establishes quickly with a germination time of 14-21 days
  • Contains beneficial endophytes that promote healthy growth
  • Features four families of cool-season turfgrasses, creating great versatility in shady to partial sun lawns
  • Provides complete coverage for up to 7,500 sq. ft. for new lawns and up to 15,000 sq. ft. for overseeding

6. Fundamentals By Scotts Grass Seed Perennial Ryegrass Mix: Up To 1,249 Sq. Ft., For High Traffic Areas, Helps Control Erosion, 3 Lbs.

Achieve a lush and durable lawn in high traffic and sunny areas with Fundamentals by Scotts Grass Seed Perennial Ryegrass Mix. This specialized blend of perennial ryegrass seed is perfect for lawns that see a lot of activity and direct sunlight. The coated grass seed mix has the ability to absorb 2x more water than uncoated seed, which ensures a healthy and hearty growth. Additionally, it establishes quickly and effectively prevents erosion. A single 3-lb. bag of this premium quality seed can seed up to 375 sq. ft. of new lawn and reseed 1,249 sq. ft. of existing lawn. For best results, it is recommended to apply the seed with a Scotts spreader, then lightly rake the seed into the soil and water daily.

Pros

  • Perennial ryegrass mix is perfect for lawns that see a lot of activity and direct sunlight
  • Coated grass seed mix absorbs 2x more water than uncoated seed
  • Establishes quickly and effectively prevents erosion
  • One 3-lb. bag can seed up to 375 sq. ft. of new lawn and 1,249 sq. ft. of existing lawn

7. Scotts Turf Builder Grass Seed Fall Mix To Help Lawn Recover From Summer Stress, 15 Lbs.

The Overseeding Mix is a specially formulated blend that can help thicken and strengthen the lawn to prevent future weeds. It establishes quickly and aids in the recovery of the lawn from summer stress. This mix contains an exclusive 4 in 1 WaterSmart PLUS coating that has been proven to absorb 2X more water than uncoated seed, provides essential nutrients to jumpstart growth, and helps protect seedlings against disease. With the Overseeding Mix, a homeowner can expect quicker, thicker, and greener grass, all backed by a guarantee. This mix has a fine-bladed texture and displays medium drought resistance.

Pros

  • Thickens and strengthens lawn to prevent future weeds
  • Establishes quickly and aids in recovery from summer stress
  • Exclusive 4 in 1 WaterSmart PLUS coating provides essential nutrients and protects against disease
  • Guaranteed to grow quicker, thicker, and greener grass
  • Fine-bladed texture

8. Pennington Smart Seed Northeast Grass Mix 20 Lb, Drought Resistant And Covers 6,600 Sq Ft

Looking for a premium grass seed mix that can help your lawn survive harsh weather conditions? Look no further than this Kentucky Bluegrass, Perennial Ryegrass, and Fine Fescue mix. With its excellent disease resistance and very good drought tolerance, this grass seed is perfect for areas that get 4 to 6 hours of sunlight. And with just the right amount of fertilizer to help your lawn succeed, you can save up to 30% more water year after year versus ordinary grass seed. Plus, this grass seed is guaranteed to grow, so you can see results in as little as 8 to 14 days. One bag covers up to 6,660 sq. ft.

Pros

  • Excellent disease resistance and drought tolerance
  • Contains just the right amount of fertilizer to help your lawn succeed
  • Saves up to 30% more water year after year versus ordinary grass seed
  • Guaranteed to grow
  • See results in 8 to 14 days

9. Jonathan Green (10316) Black Beauty Original Grass Seed Blend – Cool Season Lawn Seed (50 Lb)

The Black Beauty Original grass seed is a premium option for those looking to grow healthy and drought-tolerant grass. This grass seed produces roots that can grow up to 4-feet deep, making it an excellent choice for areas prone to drought. The leaves of this grass have a waxy coating that helps retain moisture when it is hot outside, ensuring that the grass stays healthy and vibrant.

This grass seed is a blend of 100% cool-season tall fescues that are uniform in texture, dark-green in color, and will not shred when mown. These fescues thrive under adverse growing conditions, making them the perfect choice for those who want a beautiful lawn without spending too much time maintaining it.

Black Beauty Original grass seed is suitable for both sunny and shady areas, making it a versatile option for any lawn. This grass seed can help thicken and strengthen any sunny or shady cool-season lawn.

The best time to apply this grass seed is between mid-August to mid-October when the ground is still warm, and the nights are cooler. Alternatively, mid-March through mid-May is also a suitable time to plant this grass seed. When using this 50 lb bag for new lawns, it can seed up to 7,500 sq. ft. For overseeding, this bag can seed up to 15,000 sq. ft. The germination time for this grass seed is 10 – 14 days.

Pros

  • Produces roots that can grow up to 4-feet deep, making it drought-tolerant
  • Uniform in texture, dark-green in color, and will not shred when mown
  • Suitable for both sunny and shady areas

10. Jonathan Green (10323) Black Beauty Ultra Grass Seed – Cool Season Lawn Seed (25 Lb)

Black Beauty Ultra Grass Seed is the perfect solution for establishing new lawns and filling in bare spots. With its fast germination, it quickly establishes new lawns, while also invigorating thin or damaged lawns by filling in bare spots. It is a blend of tall fescues, Kentucky bluegrass, and perennial ryegrass that produces healthy, dense, and attractive turf with a dark-green color.

Black Beauty Ultra Grass Seed has deep roots that can grow up to 4-feet deep and a waxy leaf coating that preserves moisture and limits evaporation. This makes it an ideal choice for lawns that experience heavy traffic, as it can withstand the wear and tear of foot traffic, pets, and children.

This grass seed mix requires full sun to partial shade, making it perfect for a wide range of growing conditions. The best time to apply it is from mid-August to mid-October when the ground is still warm, and the nights are cooler. Alternatively, you can apply it from mid-March through mid-May for optimal results.

This 25 lb bag of Black Beauty Ultra Grass Seed will seed up to 5,000 sq. ft. for new lawns and up to 10,000 sq. ft. for overseeding. The germination time is between 7 to 14 days, depending on the weather and soil conditions. With complete coverage and a beautiful appearance, Black Beauty Ultra Grass Seed is an excellent choice for anyone looking to establish or improve their lawn.

Pros

  • Fast germination for quick establishment of new lawns
  • Fills in bare spots to invigorate thin or damaged lawns
  • Produces healthy, dense, and attractive turf with a dark-green color
  • Deep roots that can grow up to 4-feet deep and a waxy leaf coating that preserves moisture and limits evaporation
  • Can withstand heavy traffic
  • Ideal for a wide range of growing conditions
  • Complete coverage
  • 25 lb bag will seed up to 5,000 sq. ft. for new lawns and up to 10,000 sq. ft. for overseeding

Best Grass Seed For Michigan FAQs

Are there any specific grass seed blends recommended for Michigan's soil?

Yes, there are specific grass seed blends that are recommended for Michigan's soil. The type of grass that is best suited for Michigan's soil is a cool-season grass. The most commonly used cool-season grasses in Michigan are Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, and tall fescue. These grasses are ideal for Michigan's climate and soil conditions because they can withstand the harsh winters and hot summers.

When selecting a grass seed blend for Michigan, it is important to consider factors such as soil type, climate, and the amount of sunlight the area receives. It is also important to choose a blend that is appropriate for the intended use of the lawn, whether it is for ornamental purposes or for high-traffic areas.

There are many different types of grass seed blends available for Michigan, so it is important to do your research and consult with a lawn care professional to determine the best option for your specific needs. By selecting the right grass seed blend, you can ensure that your lawn will thrive in Michigan's unique soil and climate conditions.

Can I plant grass seed in Michigan during the summer?

Yes, you can plant grass seed in Michigan during the summer, but it's not the ideal time to do so. The best time to plant grass seed in Michigan is during the fall season, as the soil is still warm enough to promote germination and there's less competition from weeds. However, if you need to plant grass seed during the summer, make sure to do it early in the season before the weather gets too hot and the soil dries out. Also, keep in mind that you'll need to water the seed regularly to keep it moist and promote growth. It's also important to choose the right type of grass seed for Michigan's climate and soil conditions. Some good options include Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, and fine fescues. Overall, while summer planting is possible, it's not the most optimal time for grass seed to grow in Michigan.

How much grass seed should I use per square foot in Michigan?

The amount of grass seed required per square foot in Michigan depends on various factors such as the type of grass, soil condition, climate, and sunlight exposure. Generally, it is recommended to use 6-10 pounds of grass seed per 1000 square feet for cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass, fescue, and ryegrass. Warm-season grasses such as Bermuda grass and Zoysia grass require around 2-3 pounds of seed per 1000 square feet.

It is essential to follow the instructions on the grass seed packaging as they provide specific guidelines based on the type of grass and the area of coverage. Over-seeding can lead to crowded growth and under-seeding can result in patchy lawns.

Before seeding, it is crucial to prepare the soil by removing weeds, rocks, and debris and adding organic matter to improve soil quality. Adequate watering, fertilization, and mowing practices are also essential for optimal grass growth.

In conclusion, the amount of grass seed required per square foot in Michigan depends on several factors, and following the instructions on the seed packaging is crucial for successful grass growth.

How often should I water newly planted grass seed in Michigan?

As a content writer, I can say that the amount of water that newly planted grass seed require depends on the weather conditions, soil type, and grass species. In Michigan, the best time to plant grass seed is during the fall season when the temperature is cooler and there's more rainfall. During this time, you'll only need to water the newly planted grass seed once a day for the first two weeks to keep the soil moist.

After the first two weeks, you can reduce the frequency of watering to twice a week. However, it's important to water the grass seed deeply and thoroughly to encourage deep root growth. Also, avoid overwatering the seed as it can lead to waterlogging and rot.

During the hot summer months, the grass seed may require more frequent watering, especially if there's no rainfall. It's important to monitor the soil moisture level and adjust the watering schedule accordingly.

In summary, watering newly planted grass seed in Michigan requires a balance between keeping the soil moist and avoiding overwatering. With proper care and attention, your grass seed will thrive and grow into a lush green lawn.

What is the average germination time for grass seed in Michigan?

The average germination time for grass seed in Michigan varies depending on the specific type of grass seed and the environmental conditions. Typically, cool-season grasses such as Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, and tall fescue have a germination time of around 7 to 21 days. Warm-season grasses such as Bermuda grass and zoysia grass, on the other hand, have a longer germination time of around 14 to 30 days.

It is important to note that the ideal time to plant grass seed in Michigan is during the early fall or late spring when the soil temperature is between 50 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit. This will provide the optimum conditions for the seeds to germinate and establish a strong root system.

To ensure successful germination, it is also important to prepare the soil properly by removing any weeds and debris and loosening the soil to a depth of at least 6 inches. Additionally, regular watering and fertilization are essential for the healthy growth of grass seed.

Overall, the average germination time for grass seed in Michigan can vary, but with proper preparation and care, you can achieve a beautiful and healthy lawn.

What is the best grass seed for Michigan lawns?

When it comes to choosing the best grass seed for Michigan lawns, there are a few factors to consider. Michigan has a cool and humid climate, which means that cool-season grasses are the most suitable. Some of the best grass seed options for Michigan lawns include Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, and fine fescue.

Kentucky bluegrass is a popular choice for Michigan lawns due to its ability to withstand heavy foot traffic and its beautiful appearance. Perennial ryegrass is a fast-growing grass that is ideal for overseeding or repairing damaged areas. Fine fescue is a low-maintenance grass that is tolerant of shade and drought.

It is important to consider the specific needs of your lawn when choosing a grass seed. Factors such as soil type, sunlight exposure, and intended use should all be taken into account. Consulting with a lawn care professional can also be helpful in determining the best grass seed for your Michigan lawn.

What is the best time of year to plant grass seed in Michigan?

The best time of year to plant grass seed in Michigan depends on the type of grass you want to grow. For cool-season grasses such as Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, and fine fescue, the best time to plant is in the fall between mid-August and mid-September. This is because the soil is still warm enough for the seeds to germinate, and the cooler temperatures and increased rainfall in the fall provide the ideal conditions for growth.

If you miss the fall planting window, you can also plant cool-season grasses in early spring, but it's important to wait until the ground has thawed and the soil temperature reaches at least 50°F for optimal germination.

For warm-season grasses such as Bermuda grass and zoysia grass, the best time to plant is in late spring or early summer when the soil temperature reaches at least 60°F. This allows the seeds to germinate quickly and establish before the cooler fall temperatures arrive.

Overall, the key to successful grass seed planting in Michigan is to choose the right time of year for the type of grass you want to grow and to ensure that the soil is properly prepared and well-watered.

What type of grass seed grows well in Michigan's climate?

Michigan is located in the midwestern region of the United States and is known for its four distinct seasons. The state experiences cold winters and warm summers, so it's important to choose a grass seed that can withstand these fluctuations in temperature.

One of the best grass seeds for Michigan's climate is Kentucky bluegrass. This type of grass is well adapted to the cool and humid climate of the region, and it can thrive in both sun and shade. Another great option is fine fescue, which is a cool-season grass that can handle cold winters and dry summers.

If you're looking for a grass seed that requires less maintenance, you might want to consider tall fescue. This type of grass is drought-resistant and doesn't require frequent watering or mowing. It can also tolerate heat and cold, making it a good option for Michigan's climate.

Overall, the best grass seed for Michigan will depend on factors such as soil type, sunlight exposure, and personal preferences. It's always a good idea to consult with a local gardening expert or landscaper to determine the best options for your specific needs.

Where can I buy high-quality grass seed in Michigan?

If you're looking to buy high-quality grass seed in Michigan, there are several options available to you. One of the most popular places to purchase grass seed is at a local garden center or nursery. These types of stores typically carry a wide range of grass seed varieties and can provide expert advice on which type of seed will work best for your lawn.

Another option is to visit a home improvement store, such as Home Depot or Lowe's. These stores often have large gardening sections and carry a variety of lawn care products, including grass seed.

If you prefer to shop online, there are numerous websites that specialize in selling grass seed, such as Seedland and Hancock Seed Company. These sites offer a wide selection of grass seed varieties and can often provide detailed information on each type of seed.

Regardless of where you choose to buy your grass seed, be sure to read reviews and compare prices to ensure that you're getting the best quality seed at the best possible price. With a little research and some careful shopping, you can find the perfect grass seed to help you achieve a lush, healthy lawn in Michigan.

Will grass seed from other regions grow well in Michigan?

Grass seed from other regions may or may not grow well in Michigan, depending on the type of grass and the climate conditions in the area. It is important to choose the right type of grass seed that is suitable for the Michigan region. Michigan has a cool and humid climate, which means that grasses that thrive in warmer and drier climates may not fare well here. It is best to consult with a local expert or a landscaping professional to determine the best type of grass seed for your specific needs.

Additionally, it is important to ensure that the soil is prepared properly before planting the grass seed. The soil in Michigan may have different pH levels and nutrient content than other regions, which may affect the growth of the grass seed. Proper preparation of the soil, including testing and amending as needed, will help to ensure that the grass seed has the best chance of growing and thriving in Michigan.

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