Grass Seed: Tips from Twin Cities Seed
Whether you’re reseeding a bare patch or starting a lawn from scratch, we’ve got you covered. We stock a wide range of premium grass seed from Twin Cities Seed — by the bag or in bulk — from classic Sunny Lawn and Dense Shade Mix to Salt Tolerant Blend and the University of Minnesota Bee Lawn Mix. Whatever your conditions, there’s a mix for your project.
Stop in to see the latest stock, talk to our staff, and find the right seed for your space. Then follow the planting guide below to set yourself up for success.
Don’t have a broadcast spreader? Rent one from us! Incredibly affordable rentals available for your project!
Planting Grass Seed: A Simple Guide
Getting a great lawn starts with the right seed, the right timing, and a little preparation. Follow these steps and you’ll be off to a strong start.
1. Choose the Right Seed
Select a variety suited to your conditions — sun exposure, soil type, and how the lawn will be used all factor in. Ask us if you’re not sure where to start.
2. Plant at the Right Time
Cool-season grasses do best in three windows:
Early spring, just after snowmelt
Late summer to early fall, when warm days and cool nights create ideal germination conditions
Winter dormant seeding, when soil temps are consistently below 7°C
Avoid mid-summer planting — heat stress makes establishment much harder.
3. Prepare the Soil
Clear debris, rocks, and weeds. Loosen the soil 2–3 inches deep and level the surface for an even result.
4. Fertilize Before You Seed
Apply a quality starter fertilizer before seeding. Look for one with equal or higher Phosphorus than Nitrogen — Phosphorus drives root development and early growth.
5. Apply Seed Evenly
Use a broadcast spreader for the most even coverage. Follow the recommended seeding rate for your product.
Don’t have a spreader? Rent one from us — quick, easy, and incredibly affordable.
6. Rake Lightly
Rake a thin layer of soil over the seed to protect it and improve seed-to-soil contact. Don’t bury it deep — just a light cover.
7. Water Consistently
Keep the soil moist until grass is established. Two to three short waterings per day (5–7 minutes each) is typically ideal. Light and frequent is the goal.
8. Be Patient Through Germination
Germination time varies by species. Once established, gradually reduce watering frequency.
9. Mow at the Right Height
Wait until grass reaches at least 3 inches before the first mow, and never remove more than one-third of the blade height in a single cutting.
10. Keep Up with Maintenance
Water and fertilize regularly as the season progresses, and address weeds promptly before they get a foothold.