Grass Seed Germination Times

Whether you’re planting or overseeding this spring, consider the germination time of the seed you choose. Not all types of grass seed germinate at the same rate. Knowing germination times can help you choose the best seed type for your needs.

A seed type’s germination rate also affects when you should plant it. If you plant fast-germinating seed too early, the cold temperatures could damage it. Likewise, heat may inhibit growth if you plant slow-germinating seed too late.

Here are germination times for a few common types of seed.

Kentucky Bluegrass

With one of the longest germination times, Kentucky bluegrass takes between 14 and 30 days to germinate. Plant it in the early spring, as long as there’s a low chance of frost. Kentucky bluegrass prefers cooler weather, although it’s a resilient grass type. 

Perennial Ryegrass

This type germinates more quickly, at five to 10 days. Plant perennial ryegrass in early spring, so it has time to establish before the summer heat. Soil temperatures between 55°F and 65°F are ideal for the time of planting. 

Fine Fescue

The germination time of fine fescue is between 10 and 14 days. Extreme temperature fluctuations cause the seed to go dormant, so plant it when the air temperature is consistently between 50°F and 65°F. Be sure to thoroughly weed the site before planting, as fine fescue is susceptible to weed competition.

Creeping Red Fescue

This type germinates in 12 to 22 days. Creeping red fescue grows best in the shade and is often mixed with perennial ryegrass or bluegrass.

Talk with your sales representative about which grass type is best for your needs and when you should plant it based on germination times.