When it comes to planting a new lawn or overseeding an existing one, one of the most common questions people ask is, “How long does it take grass seed to grow?” The answer to this question depends on a variety of factors, including the type of grass seed you choose, the time of year you plant, and the conditions in your area. In this article, we will explore the different types of grass seed commonly used in Southwest Missouri and compare their growth rates.
How Long Does It Take Bermuda Grass to Grow?
Bermuda grass is a warm-season grass that is often used for lawns and athletic fields in Southwest Missouri. When planted in the late spring or early summer, Bermuda grass seeds will typically germinate in 7 to 14 days. The grass will start to grow vigorously after 3 to 4 weeks and will require its first mowing. Bermuda grass can take up to 90 days to reach maturity.
How Long Does It Take Sunny Fescue to Grow?
Fescue is a cool-season grass that is often used for lawns and golf courses in Southwest Missouri. Sunny varieties grow faster than shade varieties. When planted in the fall, sunny fescue seeds will typically germinate in 7 to 14 days. The grass will start to grow vigorously after 3 to 4 weeks and will require its first mowing after about 4 to 6 weeks. Sun fescue can take up to 90 days to reach maturity. This means if you plant in the fall, you’ll likely see most of the results from your overseed the next Spring.
How Long Does It Take Shady Fescue to Grow?
Shady fescue varieties are often used for lawns with partial or full shade in Southwest Missouri. When planted in the fall, shady fescue seeds will typically germinate in 14 to 21 days. The grass will start to grow vigorously after 3 to 4 weeks and will require its first mowing after about 4 to 6 weeks. Shady fescue can take up to 120 days to reach maturity.
How Long Does It Take Kentucky Bluegrass to Grow?
Kentucky bluegrass is a cool-season grass that is often used for lawns in Southwest Missouri. When planted in the fall, Kentucky bluegrass seeds will typically germinate in 14 to 21 days. The grass will start to grow vigorously after 3 to 4 weeks and will require its first mowing after about 4 to 6 weeks. Kentucky bluegrass can take up to 120 days to reach maturity.
What Else Affects How Fast Grass Grows?
Keep in mind that these are general timelines and can vary based on factors such as soil quality, fertilization, watering, weather, and lawn pests We’ll discuss these factors below.
Soil Quality: Soil affects water retention, how quickly roots can develop, how long nutrients stay in the soil, and how well nutrients are utilized by a plant’s roots. Soil quality has a wide range and has a massive impact on your ability to cultivate plant life.
Fertilization: The right fertilizer will provide your grass seed with the essential nutrients it needs to grow healthy and strong. Test your soil to determine its pH and nutrient levels before planting your seed. This will help you determine what type of fertilizer to use and how much to apply. Learn more about fertilization here.
Watering: Adequate watering is essential for the germination of grass seed. Water the seedbed immediately after planting and then water frequently and lightly until the grass has been established. Once the grass is established, water deeply and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. For more on watering, check out this article.
Weather: The weather can play a significant role in the success of your grass seed growth. The recommended seasons for grass seed planting are actually proxies for the ideal temperature for that grass variety. Depending on the weather events surrounding the time of seeding, germination speed and growth rate could be faster or slower. It’s important to avoid planting your seed during extremely hot or cold weather conditions, few types of grass like extremes.
Lawn Pests: Weeds and disease can also slow your growth rate. Weeds steal nutrients from desirable plants while diseased grass struggles to grow. It’s important to maintain good cultural practices to ward off lawn pests.
Conclusion
The length of time it takes grass seed to grow in Southwest Missouri depends on the type of grass seed you choose and the conditions in your area. With proper fertilization, watering, and attention to weather conditions, you can achieve a lush and healthy lawn. By taking these factors into consideration, you can increase the chances of successful grass seed growth in Southwest Missouri. Whatever grass seed you choose, it’s important to provide it with the right conditions for growth, including proper soil preparation, regular watering, and appropriate fertilization.
Want some help picking the right grass seed for your situation? Click here to get an estimate from Midwest Turf Pros.
