If you want to plant a brand new lawn or you’re looking to fix dry patches, grass seed is a great way to improve the quality and growth of your lawn. Whether you’re an amateur gardener or an experienced lawn care specialist, grass seed is your companion when it comes to growing a lawn that is robust, healthy and beautiful.

What is Grass Seed?

Though the exact number isn’t known, it’s estimated that there are thousands of different species of grass, each with its own diverse characteristics and growth cycle.

Grass seed comes from stems of grass that have not been mowed and are allowed to grow tall. The seed heads, known as ‘inflorescences’ emerge and stick out to allow for pollination and then recede into dormancy. As the seed hardens or matures, they are then ready to be collected.

Signs You Need Grass Seed

If you’re creating a whole new lawn, grass seed is a much more affordable option than laying down turf. If your lawn is ragged or has dead spots, it’s definitely time to add some grass seed. The process of adding grass seed to an existing lawn is called ‘overseeding’.

How Does Overseeding Work?

After grass seed is applied to the soil, it needs to go through germination. This is a process where the seeds retain enough water to start sprouting blades of grass. There are multiple factors that can help or hinder the germination process. Some of these factors include:

- Soil temperature – For spring grass to thrive, the soil should be around 12°C.

- Seed shell thickness – Germination all depends on the outer shell of the seed, and when it’s ready to start the germination process.

- Moisture level – The amount of moisture has to be just right. Too little or too much can harm the seed and impede its ability to grow.

- Oxygen content – If the soil around the seed is too water-filled, the seed will be unable to obtain oxygen from the soil, which it needs to grow.

- Light source – The seed cannot be buried too far into the soil or it won’t be able to catch the sun’s UV rays. Without enough sun, the seed won’t be able to support the photosynthesis process.

When is The Best Time for Seeding?

The best time to plant grass seed in Ontario is between mid-August and mid-September. The mix of warm and cool temperatures encourage germination and root establishment. It will also have less competition from weeds trying to take its nutrients. You want to make sure the grass is well established before the chilly days of autumn and morning frost appear.

If you’re looking for a supplier that has a variety of types of fresh grass seed, look no further than Van Beek’s Landscape Supply in Oakville or Mississauga. Contact us today to grow your new lawn or replenish your existing one before the winter hits. We have a variety of high-quality grass seed products and our expert team are always ready to answer any questions you may have!