Sometimes it seems like it takes forever for seed to germinate, and sometimes it almost does. Often the true length of germination isn’t noticed because seed blends often include perennial ryegrass which is a notoriously quick to sprout. Perennial ryegrass is used as a “nurse” grass, providing shade and protection to developing seeds of other grass species.
While perennial ryegrass can germinate in as little as five days, it can take Kentucky bluegrass anywhere from 14-30 days. That’s a whole month!
Optimum germination conditions are in the spring and fall when temperatures are high enough to encourage growth but low enough to retain moisture. Seed sown in the summer often dries out in the mid-day sun resulting in poor germination rates. Be Sure to prepare the seed bed properly and maintain adequate soil moisture for best results.
