Find out exactly how much grass seed you need for a new lawn or overseeding project. No guesswork, no wasted seed.
Starting from bare soil or full renovation
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Bags needed per lawn size based on Scotts Rapid Grass Seed coverage specs.
| Lawn Size | Overseeding | New Lawn | Heavy Seeding |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1,000 sq ft | 1 bags | 1 bags | 1 bags |
| 2,000 sq ft | 1 bags | 1 bags | 2 bags |
| 3,000 sq ft | 1 bags | 2 bags | 2 bags |
| 5,000 sq ft | 1 bags | 2 bags | 3 bags |
| 8,000 sq ft | 2 bags | 3 bags | 5 bags |
| 10,000 sq ft | 2 bags | 4 bags | 6 bags |
Based on Scotts Rapid Grass Seed (5.6 lb bag, 2,800 sq ft coverage for new lawn). Overseeding uses half rate; heavy seeding uses 1.5× rate.
Starting a lawn from seed costs a fraction of sod and gives you more variety options, but success depends on preparation. The three most important factors are soil contact, consistent moisture, and timing.
For new lawns, loosen the top 2–3 inches of soil, spread seed evenly with a broadcast spreader, then lightly rake and roll to press seed into the soil. Keep the area consistently moist (not soaked) for the first 2–3 weeks until grass is established.
For overseeding an existing lawn, mow short, dethatch or aerate first, then spread seed at half the new-lawn rate. The key is getting seed-to-soil contact — seed sitting on top of thatch will not germinate reliably.
Enter your address to get your exact lawn square footage for seeding — free.
Also check out our fertilizer calculator and mulch calculator