Pick good grass seed to start a strong lawn. Many brands mix seeds and share many claims. This can feel hard to sort. The seed tag holds key facts that help you save both time and money.
Understanding the Seed Tag
The seed tag sits at the heart of your choice. It shows the seed’s makeup. Every bag must show these points:
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Testing Date: Shows when the seed was checked. Fresh seed usually gives a better sprout rate.
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Percent Germination: Tells the percent of seed that will sprout. A higher number means better quality.
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Percent Purity: Shows how much of the bag is real grass seed. Look for a high number.
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Percent Inert Matter: Lists bits like coatings or small pieces. Some coating can help hold moisture.
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Percent Weed and Other Crop Seed: Low numbers here mean fewer unwanted seeds.
Good seed has high sprout and purity numbers and low inert parts and weed seeds. This plan builds a strong base for your lawn.
Beware of Coatings
Many grass seeds have a coating that can boost seed growth. Coatings may share helpful parts, but they might also hide chemicals. Use gloves and long sleeves when you sow them. Read the bag to check for any risk clues.
Mix of Seeds
When you see mixes—like "Sun and Shade Mix" or "Heavy Shade Mix"—check the seed list carefully. Common types include annual ryegrass, perennial ryegrass, Kentucky bluegrass, and fescues.
Annual vs. Perennial Ryegrass
Annual ryegrass sprouts fast. It gives quick cover but does not last through hot months. Perennial ryegrass stays longer but may also fall under high stress. A mix that keeps a tie in numbers helps avoid too many short-life annual seeds.
Choosing the Right Seed Mix
Check the list inside a mix. A good mix shows high parts of types like Kentucky bluegrass or tall fescue. If the mix has many perennial ryegrass seeds, be sure it is balanced for long life.
Coverage Area
Look at how much area a bag will cover. For example, a 3-pound bag of fine seeds such as Kentucky bluegrass can cover more space than the same weight of coarser seeds like perennial ryegrass.
Conclusion
Buy quality grass seed instead of cheap mixes with many unwanted types. This choice cuts time, worry, and cost. Check the seed tag, learn the differences among grass types, and note the area covered. With clear facts in hand, pick seed that will grow a strong lawn for many seasons. Enjoy a neat lawn that adds charm to your home.
About Steve’s Property Maintenance
Steve’s Property Maintenance is a trusted lawn care and landscaping service provider dedicated to keeping properties in top condition across New London County, Connecticut. With a reputation for reliability, attention to detail, and top-quality service, we specialize in lawn care, yard maintenance, landscaping, power washing, and more. Our team is committed to delivering lush, healthy lawns and pristine outdoor spaces for both residential and commercial clients.
📍 Serving: Norwich, Preston, Groton, Stonington, Waterford, Mystic, and surrounding areas.
📞 Contact us at +1 (860) 847-3441 for a free quote and let us take care of your lawn care needs!
