Different seed mixtures establish at different speeds. As a general rule, hardwearing mixtures usually contain ryegrass and red fescue, two species that establish quite quickly – they can germinate in as little as 3-4 days, but 7-10 days is more average. Other, more high quality mixtures can take longer to get established. Finer red fescues, bent grass and smooth meadow grass can take slightly longer to germinate. Allow up to 14 days for these to germinate.
Now of course these estimates can vary greatly depending on the weather. If it’s warm and damp, germination tends to be faster, cold and dry, and germination can take much longer.
If germination takes longer than expected, you may want to ask yourself the following:
- What sort of mixture did I purchase? Is it hardwearing, or a high quality mix?
- Has it rained since I sowed the seed?
- What’s the soil temperature? (needs to be at least 7-8 degrees Celsius)
- Did I prepare the seed bed properly, and did I roll the seed into the soil?
Wildflower mixtures establish at different speeds. See here for our wildflower guide.
Failed sowing? Try “Fast Grass” for quick green cover. Click here.