Grass Seed Calculator
Enter your lawn size and job to see the pounds and bags of grass seed to buy.
| Lawn size | New lawn | Overseeding |
|---|---|---|
| 1,000 sq ft | 4.5 lb | 2.5 lb |
| 2,500 sq ft | 11.3 lb | 6.3 lb |
| 5,000 sq ft | 22.5 lb | 12.5 lb |
| 10,000 sq ft | 45.0 lb | 25.0 lb |
Measure your lawn
For a simple rectangle, multiply length by width. Break an irregular yard into rectangles, measure each, and add them together. Subtract the house, driveway, and beds so you do not overseed the pavement.
New lawn versus overseeding
Bare ground needs the full rate of about 4 to 5 pounds per 1,000 square feet so the seedlings fill in quickly. Overseeding into thin turf uses about half that, since existing grass already covers much of the ground. Check the bag, because blends vary.
Get even coverage
Split the seed into two passes at right angles and set the spreader to about half the rate for each. Keep the soil moist for the first two weeks. Seed-to-soil contact matters more than the exact pound count, so rake it in lightly.
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Questions about this calculator
How much grass seed do I need per 1,000 square feet?
Use about 4 to 5 pounds for a new lawn and 2 to 3 pounds for overseeding. Dense blends and sunny sites can take the higher end.
How many pounds are in a bag of grass seed?
Common bags are 3, 5, 7, and 20 pounds. Check the label, because bag size changes how many you need for the same rate.
Can I put down too much grass seed?
Yes. Too much seed crowds seedlings, and they compete for light and water. Stick close to the label rate and split it into two passes.
How much does a 5 lb bag of grass seed cover?
About 1,100 square feet for a new lawn or about 2,000 square feet for overseeding at the rates above.
When should I seed?
Early fall is the best window in most of the US, with cool nights and warm soil. Spring works too, but weeds compete harder and summer heat can stress young grass.
Do I need to cover seed with straw?
A thin straw or peat layer helps on slopes and bare ground by holding moisture and blocking birds. Skip heavy cover, which can smother the seedlings.