Grass Seed Calculator

You may think of 'grass' as a single entity, but in fact there is a mind-boggling number of varieties and mixes available. Each variety has its own look and texture, and each has its own level of hardiness and drought-resistance. Your local garden center is a good place to start, since it will most likely carry the kinds of seed known to do well in your area.

Since there's so much variation in coverage rates, you'll need to be sure to check the instructions on the seed you're buying to make sure you have enough. Some products require a pound for every 200 square feet of lawn; others will cover 1,000 square feet with just one pound of seed. Most coverage is expressed in a range, such as 350 to 500 square feet per pound (or about 2 to 3 pounds per 1,000 square feet). Always use the rate that provides the heaviest coverage if you're seeding a new lawn, and the lower rate if you're overseeding an existing lawn.

This calculator will estimate how much seed you'll need assuming a coverage rate of 400 square feet to the pound, where a 5-pound bag will cover a 2,000-square-foot area. If you're buying a seed that covers less or more, you can change the coverage rate.