There’s something wonderfully satisfying about growing a lawn from seed. It may take longer than rolling out turf, but the results are often more rewarding. This guide covers everything from choosing the right seed to caring for your new lawn.
Why Grow a Lawn from Seed?
Sowing from seed takes more time and care than laying turf, but it comes with real advantages:
More Choice – With seed, you can pick a mix suited to your garden’s conditions — from shady spots to drought-prone areas or hard-wearing lawns for kids and pets. Turf is usually “one size fits all,” but seed lets you match your lawn to its environment.
Lower Cost – Seed is far more economical than turf, especially for large lawns. You avoid high upfront costs, delivery fees, and labour expenses while still achieving great results.
Greater Satisfaction – Watching your lawn grow from bare soil to a lush green carpet is deeply rewarding. Every stage, from sowing to the first mow, reflects your own care and effort in a way turf can’t match.
When to Sow Lawn Seed
The best times to sow are spring (March–May) and early autumn (late August–October) when the soil is warm, temperatures are mild, and rainfall is reliable. Avoid extremes: summer heat dries seeds, and cold winter soil slows germination.
Choosing the Right Lawn Seed
Different gardens need different mixes:
Shady Lawn Mix – Suited to dappled light and cooler corners.
Hardwearing Lawn Mix – Tough and resilient, perfect for pets and play.
Formal Garden Lawn Mix – Fine, ornamental grasses for a pristine finish.
Still unsure? Browse the full range at kentseeds.co.uk or email for advice.
Preparing Your Sowing Site
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Clear the Area – Remove old grass, weeds, stones, and debris. This prevents competition and gives seedlings the best start.
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Dig Over the Soil – Loosen soil to about 15 cm (6 inches). Improve heavy clay with sand or compost, and sandy soil with organic matter.
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Level and Rake – Aim for a fine, crumbly surface and even ground to prevent drainage problems and mowing issues.
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Firm the Soil – Lightly tread or roll to create a stable seedbed, then rake the top layer before sowing. Give the ground a day or two to settle.
How to Sow a New Lawn
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Measure and Calculate – Use 35–50 g of seed per m² for new lawns, 25–35 g for overseeding.
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Scatter Evenly – Sow half one way, half at right angles, or use a spreader for consistency.
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Lightly Rake – Work seed into the top 0.5–1 cm of soil. Too deep and it won’t sprout; too shallow and it may dry or be eaten.
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Firm Down – Gently tread or roll to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.
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Water Gently – Keep the surface moist with a fine spray, once or twice daily if dry. Germination takes 7–21 days.
Looking After Your Lawn
Watering – For the first 3–4 weeks, keep soil consistently moist without waterlogging. Once grass is established, switch to deeper, less frequent watering to encourage strong roots.
Mowing – Wait until grass reaches 7–8 cm before the first cut. Mow on a dry day with sharp blades, trimming only the top third. Gradually reduce cutting height over time.
Feeding – Apply a balanced new-lawn feed about 6 weeks after sowing. Use products specifically designed for young grass and follow the instructions carefully.
Weeds – Expect some weeds early on. Hand-weed where possible, as young grass can’t tolerate weed killers. Once well established (usually after the first season), you can treat with a selective lawn weed killer if needed.
How We Can Help
Not sure which seed mix to choose or how to prepare your soil? We’re here to help. 📧 info@kentseeds.co.uk 📱 Instagram: @kent.seeds 🌐 kentseeds.co.uk
