10 Best Grass Seed For Minnesota (2024 Update)

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If you’re looking for high-quality grass seed for your lawn in Minnesota, it’s important to consider a few factors before making your purchase. First and foremost, you’ll want to choose a grass seed that is well-suited to Minnesota’s climate and growing conditions. Look for seed blends that are specifically designed for the region or that include grass varieties known to thrive in colder weather. You’ll also want to consider factors like sun exposure, soil type, and drainage patterns on your property to ensure that you select the right seed for your needs.

Before you buy any grass seed for your Minnesota lawn, consider how much maintenance you’re willing to do. Some grass varieties may require more frequent mowing, fertilization, or watering to keep them looking healthy, while others may be lower maintenance. Additionally, you may want to factor in any pest or disease issues that are common in your area and choose a seed variety that is more resistant to these issues.

Are you tired of looking out at a dull, patchy lawn every time you open your curtains? Are you ready to take the first step towards a beautiful, lush lawn that will be the envy of your neighbors? Whether you’re a seasoned lawn care veteran or a first-time homeowner, selecting the right grass seed is key to achieving your goals. Keep these factors in mind as you start your search for the perfect grass seed for your Minnesota lawn, and soon you’ll be enjoying a beautiful, vibrant outdoor space that you can be proud of.

10 Best Grass Seed For Minnesota

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Ideal for those in need of a durable and low-maintenance grass option that thrives in a variety of weather conditions.
2
Ideal for growing a healthy and lush lawn in areas with sun and shade.
3
The product is ideal for filling in bare spots on lawns that receive both sunlight and shade.
4
Ideal for growing grass in areas with limited sunlight and dense shade.
5
Ideal for those looking to grow a lush lawn with fine blades in areas with full sun, light shade, and medium drought.
6
Ideal for growing grass in the Northeast region of the United States.
7
It is ideal for growing and maintaining lush, dark green grass in sunny and shaded areas with low maintenance.
8
This product is ideal for growing grass in both sunny and shaded areas.
9
This product is ideal for growing dense, green lawns in the southern and southeast US with minimal fertilizer and maintenance needs.
10
Ideal for planting in areas with poor soils, flooding, and drought due to its tolerance to these conditions.
Ideal for those in need of a durable and low-maintenance grass option that thrives in a variety of weather conditions.
Ideal for growing a healthy and lush lawn in areas with sun and shade.
The product is ideal for filling in bare spots on lawns that receive both sunlight and shade.
Ideal for growing grass in areas with limited sunlight and dense shade.
Ideal for growing grass in the Northeast region of the United States.
It is ideal for growing and maintaining lush, dark green grass in sunny and shaded areas with low maintenance.
This product is ideal for growing grass in both sunny and shaded areas.
Ideal for planting in areas with poor soils, flooding, and drought due to its tolerance to these conditions.

1. Premium Oregon Grown Kentucky 31 Tall Fescue Grass Seed (5 Lbs)

Looking for a lawn grass seed that can withstand the heat and drought? Look no further than the Kentucky 31 tall Fescue grass seed. This grass seed is designed to absorb and retain more moisture, making it an excellent choice for those who want a lush, green lawn even in the driest months. The Kentucky 31 tall Fescue grass seed is extremely durable and can easily withstand harsh weather conditions. Not only is it an excellent turf grass, but it can also serve as a forage grass.

This grass seed can cover up to 1,000 square feet, making it an ideal choice for those with large lawns. With its heat and drought tolerance, the Kentucky 31 tall Fescue grass seed is perfect for homeowners who want a low-maintenance lawn. It requires less watering and can easily grow in areas with poor soil quality.

Pros

  • Absorbs and retains more moisture
  • Extremely durable and heat & drought tolerant
  • Can serve as both forage or turf grass
  • Covers up to 1,000 square feet

2. Greenview Fairway Formula Grass Seed Turf Type Tall Fescue Sun & Shade Blend – 20 Lbs.

Achieve a lush and healthy lawn with the A-LIST blend of grass seeds from GreenView. This blend is specially formulated to thrive in lawns that receive both sun and shade, making it an excellent choice for extreme environments. The mix consists of top-rated, premium quality seeds that are 99.9% weed-free, thanks to GreenView's proprietary mix. The seeds are uncoated, ensuring maximum seed coverage for optimal results. Whether you're covering bare spots, seeding a new lawn, or overseeding an existing lawn, the A-LIST blend is an ideal choice.

The A-LIST blend offers top-rated resistance from heat, drought, insects, diseases, and heavy traffic from children and pets. When used as directed, you can expect fast seed germination in just 7-14 days, giving you a vibrant and healthy lawn in no time. The coverage area is impressive, with 2,500 square feet of coverage for new lawns, and 5,000 square feet of coverage for overseeding existing lawns.

To achieve the best results, pair the A-LIST blend with GreenView's Fairway Formula Seeding Success, a one-step starter fertilizer and seeding mulch that guarantees successful seed germination. GreenView offers a professional rights guarantee, ensuring that you receive only the highest quality product. And if you're not completely satisfied, the GreenView Yard Wide Guarantee promises your money back. Achieve a healthy and thriving lawn with the A-LIST blend from GreenView.

Pros

  • 99.9% weed-free with proprietary mix of top-rated, premium quality seeds
  • Provides top-rated resistance from heat, drought, insects, diseases, and heavy traffic
  • Uncoated seeds ensure maximum seed coverage
  • Fast seed germination in 7-14 days when used as directed
  • Ideal for bare spots, seeding a new lawn or for overseeding an existing lawn
  • 2,500 sq. ft. coverage if seeding new lawn; 5,000 sq. ft. coverage if overseeding existing lawn

3. Pennington One Step Complete Sun & Shade Bare Spot Grass Seed, 5 Pounds, White

The grass repair kit is an all-in-one solution for homeowners who want to grow thick, lush grass in bare spots. The kit includes premium Smart Seed grass seed, professional-grade fertilizer, and mulch, all pre-mixed and ready to use. With this kit, homeowners can expect to see results in just two weeks or less. The kit is designed to cover up to 75 sq. ft., with a seed germination period of 7-14 days.

Pros

  • All-in-one solution for grass repair
  • Premium Smart Seed grass seed included
  • Professional-grade fertilizer included
  • Mulch included
  • Fast results in two weeks or less
  • Covers up to 75 sq. ft.

4. Pennington Smart Seed Dense Shade Grass Mix 7 Lb

Create a lush, green lawn in even the shadiest areas of your yard with this specially designed grass seed mix. The blend of Tall Fescue and Fine Fescue is perfectly formulated to thrive in low light conditions, growing thick and strong with only 2 to 6 hours of daily sunlight. With just the right amount of fertilizer included in the mix, your lawn will have all the nutrients it needs to succeed. This grass seed is disease and traffic-resistant, ensuring a durable and long-lasting lawn that can withstand heavy use. Plus, it requires up to 30% less water than ordinary grass seed, making it an eco-friendly choice for your yard. You can trust that this product will deliver results – it's guaranteed to grow, and you'll see a full, green lawn in just 8 to 16 days. Each bag covers up to 1,750 sq. ft., making it an economical choice for larger lawns.

Pros

  • Specifically formulated for shady areas of the lawn
  • Includes fertilizer for added nutrients
  • Disease and traffic-resistant for a strong, durable lawn
  • Requires less water than ordinary grass seed

5. Scotts Turf Builder Grass Seed Kentucky Bluegrass Mix – 7 Lb., Use In Full Sun, Light Shade, Fine Bladed Texture, And Medium Drought Resistance, Seeds Up To 4,660 Sq. Ft.

Scotts Turf Builder Grass Seed Kentucky Bluegrass Mix is the perfect solution for those looking to achieve a thick, durable lawn that can withstand wear and tear. The seed mix is specially designed for full sun and light shade areas, with a fine-bladed texture and medium drought resistance. This product is ideal for those looking for an attractive and resilient lawn that requires minimal maintenance.

One of the unique features of this product is its exclusive 4 in 1 WaterSmart PLUS Coating. This coating is designed to absorb more water, feed the seedlings with essential nutrients, and protect them from disease. This innovative technology ensures that the seeds germinate quickly and effectively, resulting in a lush and healthy lawn.

The Scotts Turf Builder Grass Seed Kentucky Bluegrass Mix is capable of seeding up to 4,660 sq. ft., making it perfect for medium to large lawns. It is important to note that this product is not available in LA.

Pros

  • Designed for full sun and light shade areas
  • Fine-bladed texture and medium drought resistance
  • 4 in 1 WaterSmart PLUS Coating ensures quick and effective germination

Cons

  • – Not available in LA

6. Pennington Smart Seed Northeast Grass Mix 3 Lb

Looking for a premium grass seed mix that can withstand summer heat and harsh winters? Look no further than this product, which contains a blend of Kentucky Bluegrass, Perennial Ryegrass, and Fine Fescues that will help your lawn thrive. With just the right amount of fertilizer included, this grass seed mix is designed to help your lawn succeed.

In addition to its superior grass seed mix, this product offers excellent disease resistance and very good drought tolerance, making it a great choice for areas that receive 4 to 6 hours of sunlight. Plus, it can help you save up to 30% more water year after year compared to ordinary grass seed, making it an eco-friendly choice for your lawn.

Not only is this grass seed mix guaranteed to grow, but you can see results in as little as 8 to 14 days. With coverage for up to 1,000 sq. ft., this bag is perfect for anyone looking to improve their lawn's appearance and health.

Pros

  • Contains a premium blend of Kentucky Bluegrass, Perennial Ryegrass, and Fine Fescues
  • Designed to survive summer heat and harsh winters
  • Offers excellent disease resistance and very good drought tolerance
  • Can help you save up to 30% more water year after year compared to ordinary grass seed
  • Guaranteed to grow and can show results in as little as 8 to 14 days

7. Jonathan Green 40322 Black Beauty Ultra Grass Seed, 7 Lb

The Black Beauty Grass Seed is a premium quality grass seed that comes in a 7 pound bag. This high-quality seed is perfect for creating a lush green lawn in your yard. The bag has a coverage area of 2,800 square feet, making it perfect for large areas. The Black Beauty grass plants have a unique invisible waxy coating just like an apple, which helps to ward off disease and preserve moisture in the leaf for superior drought tolerance.

Pros

  • Premium quality grass seed
  • Large coverage area of 2,800 square feet
  • Unique invisible waxy coating of Black Beauty grass plants helps to ward off disease and preserve moisture in the leaf for superior drought tolerance

8. Pennington Smart Seed Sun And Shade Grass Mix 7 Lb

Create a stunning green lawn with this perfect blend of grass seeds containing tall fescue, perennial ryegrass, Kentucky bluegrass, and fine fescue. Whether your lawn receives sun in some parts and moderate shade in others, this grass seed will thrive in those conditions. The fertilizer content in the seed is precisely balanced to help your lawn succeed. This grass seed is recommended for areas getting 4 to 6 hours of sunlight. Enjoy excellent disease resistance and very good drought tolerance with this grass seed.

Not only will your lawn look great, but you can also save up to 30% more water year after year versus ordinary grass seed. This grass seed is guaranteed to grow, and you can see the results in just 8 to 21 days. The bag covers up to 2,330 sq. ft. of area.

Pros

  • Contains a perfect blend of grass seeds for sun and moderate shade areas
  • Fertilizer content is precisely balanced
  • Excellent disease resistance and drought tolerance
  • Saves up to 30% more water compared to ordinary grass seed
  • Guaranteed to grow and quick results

9. Centipede Grass Seed For A Dense Green Lawn, No Mulch, 1 Lb Coated Seeds, Sun And Moderate Shade Tolerant Lawn Seeding And Turf Patch Repair, Southern Southeast Us, Low Fertilizer Low Maintenance

Gulfkist Centipede Grass Seed is an ideal choice for those looking for a low maintenance lawn that can withstand hot climates with steady rainfall. The coated grass seeds protect the seeds without requiring added mulch, and there is no need for sprigging. Once established, this grass requires less care and is slow-growing, meaning less mowing is required. It can also tolerate moderate foot traffic.

Unlike other grass varieties like Zoysia Grass and Bahia Grass that become dormant and turn brown during cooler seasons, Centipede Grass has no true dormancy and remains green throughout the year. This means there is no need to overseed with rye grass for color in mild climates.

Gulfkist takes pride in the quality of their product and offers a manufacturer's warranty. If not satisfied, customers can contact Gulfkist to make it right. Overall, Gulfkist Centipede Grass Seed is an excellent choice for those who want a beautiful, low maintenance lawn that can survive in hot climates with steady rainfall.

Pros

  • Coated grass seeds protect without added mulch
  • Once established, requires less care
  • Slow-growing for less mowing
  • Can tolerate moderate foot traffic
  • Remains green throughout the year

10. Outsidepride Switchgrass Native Grass Seed Tolerant Of Poor Soils, Flooding, & Drought – 1 Lb

Switchgrass, scientifically known as Panicum virgatum, is a summer perennial grass that is indigenous to North America. It is an inherent part of the native tall-grass prairie, which was widespread across most of the Great Plains, as well as the southern and eastern United States. This plant thrives in areas that receive an average of 30 inches of rainfall annually, or in irrigated areas with average to wet soils. It usually grows to a height of 3 to 5 feet and is often cultivated as an ornamental grass plant due to its attractive appearance. Additionally, it is an excellent material for fresh and dried floral arrangements due to its unique texture and color.

Switchgrass is an incredibly hardy plant that can withstand poor soil conditions, flooding, and drought. Its exceptional adaptability makes it an ideal option for homeowners looking to cultivate a low-maintenance garden or landscape.

The recommended quantity of seed to sow is 1/4 to 1/2 pound per 1,000 square feet.

Pros

  • Native to North America
  • Attractive appearance
  • Hardy and adaptable to poor soil conditions, flooding, and drought

Best Grass Seed For Minnesota FAQs

Are there any special considerations for growing grass seed in Minnesota's climate?

Yes, there are certain special considerations for growing grass seed in Minnesota's climate. The state's climate is classified as continental, which means that it experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year. Winters can be very cold, with temperatures dropping well below freezing, while summers can be hot and humid. This can make it challenging to grow grass seed that will thrive in this climate.

To ensure success when growing grass seed in Minnesota, it is important to choose a variety that is well-suited to the climate. Cool-season grasses, such as Kentucky bluegrass and perennial ryegrass, tend to perform well in Minnesota's climate. These grasses are able to withstand the cold winters and hot summers, and can also tolerate drought conditions.

In addition to choosing the right type of grass seed, it is also important to ensure that the soil is prepared properly before planting. This may involve testing the soil to determine its pH level and nutrient content, and making any necessary amendments to improve its quality.

Overall, growing grass seed in Minnesota's climate can be challenging, but with the right preparation and care, it is possible to achieve a beautiful and healthy lawn.

Are there any specific grass seed brands recommended for Minnesota lawns?

Yes, there are specific grass seed brands that are recommended for Minnesota lawns. The type of grass that is most commonly grown in Minnesota is cool-season grasses such as Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, and fine fescue. These grasses are best suited for the state's climate and soil conditions.

When choosing a grass seed brand, it is important to select a high-quality product that contains a mix of grass varieties. This will ensure that the lawn is able to withstand the harsh Minnesota winters and hot summers. Some of the top grass seed brands for Minnesota lawns include Scotts Turf Builder, Pennington Smart Seed, and Jonathan Green Black Beauty.

It is also important to consider factors such as the amount of sunlight the lawn receives, soil type, and the amount of foot traffic the lawn will experience when selecting a grass seed brand. Consulting with a local lawn care professional can also provide valuable insight into selecting the best grass seed brand for a Minnesota lawn.

Can I grow grass seed in Minnesota during the winter months?

Growing grass seed during the winter months in Minnesota can be challenging due to the harsh climate conditions. The cold and snow can make it difficult for the seeds to germinate properly. However, it is still possible to grow grass seed during the winter months if you take the right steps.

One of the most important factors in growing grass seed during winter is selecting the right type of seed. You should choose a cold-hardy seed that is specifically designed for winter planting. This type of seed is more resistant to freezing temperatures and can germinate better in cold weather.

Another important factor is soil preparation. You should prepare the soil properly before planting the grass seed. This involves removing any debris or rocks from the soil, tilling the soil to loosen it, and adding organic matter to help retain moisture.

Finally, you should water the grass seed regularly, even during the winter months. This will help to keep the soil moist and promote germination.

In summary, while it may be challenging to grow grass seed during the winter months in Minnesota, it is still possible with the right seed selection, soil preparation, and watering techniques.

Can I use a grass seed mix or should I only use one type of grass seed in Minnesota?

Yes, you can definitely use a grass seed mix for your lawn in Minnesota. In fact, using a mix of grass seeds can be beneficial as it can provide better resistance to different environmental conditions and diseases. However, it is important to ensure that the grass seed mix you choose is suitable for the climate and soil conditions in Minnesota. Factors like the amount of sunlight, temperature, and soil type can impact the growth of grass, so it's important to choose a mix that suits the specific conditions of your lawn. Additionally, it's recommended to choose a mix that includes both cool-season and warm-season grasses, as this can ensure that your lawn stays green and healthy throughout the year. Overall, using a grass seed mix can be a great option for your lawn in Minnesota, as long as you choose the right mix for your specific needs.

How do I prepare my soil for planting grass seed in Minnesota?

Preparing soil for planting grass seed in Minnesota requires a few steps to ensure that the seed will grow successfully. First, start by removing any debris or weeds from the area where you plan to plant the grass seed. Next, till the soil to a depth of at least 4-6 inches, breaking up any large clumps and creating a smooth, level surface. Once the soil is tilled, add any necessary soil amendments such as compost or fertilizer to improve soil quality and nutrient levels. Test the soil's pH level to determine if any additional amendments are necessary. After amending the soil, rake the surface to create a smooth, level surface. Finally, spread the grass seed over the area, following the recommended seeding rate for the specific grass species being planted. Use a seed spreader to ensure even distribution and cover the seed lightly with soil or mulch. Water the area thoroughly and keep the soil moist until the grass seed germinates and establishes. Proper soil preparation is vital to the success of any planting project, and following these steps will help ensure a healthy, lush lawn in Minnesota.

How long does it take for grass seed to germinate in Minnesota?

The time that grass seed takes to germinate in Minnesota depends on a variety of factors, such as the type of grass seed, soil temperature, moisture level, and sunlight exposure. Typically, cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass, ryegrass, and fescue take around 7-21 days to germinate in Minnesota's climate. However, warm-season grasses like Bermuda grass and zoysia grass can take up to 30 days or more to germinate in Minnesota.

To ensure successful germination, it's important to prepare the soil properly by removing any debris, loosening the soil, and adding fertilizer or compost. Additionally, it's essential to water the newly seeded area regularly, keeping the soil moist but not overly saturated. In Minnesota, the best time to plant grass seed is in the late summer or early fall when the temperatures are cooler and the soil is still warm enough to promote germination.

In summary, the time it takes for grass seed to germinate in Minnesota varies depending on the type of grass seed and the environmental conditions. Proper soil preparation, watering, and timing are crucial to achieve successful germination and establish a healthy, lush lawn.

How much grass seed do I need to cover my lawn in Minnesota?

The amount of grass seed you need to cover your lawn in Minnesota depends on several factors such as the size of your lawn, the type of grass you want to plant, and the method of seeding you plan to use. For instance, if you have a small lawn, you will need less grass seed compared to someone who has a larger lawn. Additionally, if you plan to use the traditional method of broadcasting the seed by hand, you may need more seed compared to someone who plans to use a seed drill or a hydroseeding machine.

A general rule of thumb is to use one pound of grass seed per 250-300 square feet of lawn. However, this may vary depending on the type of grass you plan to plant. For cool-season grasses such as Kentucky bluegrass, fine fescue, and perennial ryegrass, you may need 2-3 pounds of seed per 1000 square feet. On the other hand, for warm-season grasses such as Bermuda grass and Zoysia grass, you may need 1-2 pounds of seed per 1000 square feet.

It is advisable to consult a lawn care expert or a local nursery to get specific recommendations on the amount of grass seed you need for your particular lawn.

How often should I water my grass seed in Minnesota?

As a general rule, grass seed in Minnesota should be watered daily until it germinates and establishes its roots. However, the amount of water required may vary depending on the type of grass, soil conditions, and weather patterns. It is recommended to water the grass seed for at least 10-20 minutes per session, or until the soil is moist enough to a depth of 6 inches. After the grass has established itself, it should be watered deeply but less frequently, usually once or twice a week. Overwatering can lead to fungal growth, while underwatering can cause the grass to wither and die. It's important to monitor the soil's moisture level and adjust watering based on the grass's needs. In addition to watering, it's essential to fertilize and mow the grass properly to ensure it stays healthy and green.

What are the best grass seed varieties to grow in Minnesota?

When it comes to selecting the best grass seed varieties to grow in Minnesota, it is important to consider the climate and soil conditions of the region. The most suitable grass seed varieties for Minnesota include Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, and fine fescue.

Kentucky bluegrass is a popular choice as it is durable, drought-resistant, and can withstand heavy foot traffic. It thrives in cool temperatures and requires regular watering and fertilization. Perennial ryegrass is another top choice for Minnesota due to its fast germination rate and ability to grow in various soil types. Fine fescue is a low-maintenance option that can tolerate shade and cold temperatures.

It is important to note that different grass seed varieties have unique characteristics and requirements. Therefore, it is essential to understand the needs of each variety before making a decision. Additionally, it is advisable to consult with local experts or lawn care professionals for personalized recommendations based on your specific needs and location.

What is the ideal time of year to plant grass seed in Minnesota?

The ideal time of year to plant grass seed in Minnesota depends on the type of grass you want to grow. Generally, the best time to plant cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass and fescue is in the early fall (mid-August to mid-September) or in the spring (late April to early May), when soil temperatures are around 50-65°F. These grasses grow best in cooler temperatures and can establish roots before the harsh winter or hot summer months. However, warm-season grasses like Bermuda and Zoysia should be planted in late spring to early summer (mid-May to mid-June) when soil temperatures are around 60-70°F. These grasses thrive in hot temperatures and can withstand drought conditions. It is also important to consider the amount of sunlight and moisture in your area when choosing the best time to plant grass seed. Proper preparation and maintenance of the soil, such as aerating and fertilizing, can also improve the success of grass seed growth.

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