Seeding New Grass
DIY Seeding vs. HydroSeeding in the Pacific Northwest
Everything you need to know to pick the right method for your lawn and get
it to sprout fast.
⏰ Best Time of Year to Plant Rye & Fescue
Cool-season grasses like perennial ryegrass and fine fescue thrive when
daytime highs sit between 60-75 °F and soil temps
are above 50 °F. In Western Washington that sweet-spot usually lands
in early spring (March–May) and
late summer/early fall (Late August–October).
-
Spring seeding takes advantage of warming soils and reliable rain—but be
wary of late frosts.
-
Fall seeding enjoys warm soils, mild days, and fewer weed seeds
competing for space.
-
Summer seeding is possible but demands diligent irrigation to fight heat
stress.
-
Winter seeding (dormant seeding) can work, yet germination waits until
soil warms and success is less predictable.
Need more climate data? Check out our in-depth
Best Time to HydroSeed guide.
🌾 Dry Seeding vs. 🌊 HydroSeeding
| Feature |
Dry Seeding |
HydroSeeding |
| Seed-to-Soil Contact |
Relies on raking or rolling—the seed can sit on top if not worked
in.
|
Slurry adheres to soil and locks seed in place for instant
contact.
|
| Moisture Retention |
Needs straw or peat cover to keep seed moist; dries quickly in sun
& wind.
|
Hydro-mulch fiber holds 10× its weight in water,
extending moisture between irrigations.
|
| Erosion & Wind Protection |
Light seed blows away; slopes often require mats or blankets.
|
Mulch forms a bonded mat reducing erosion even on 2:1 slopes.
|
| Germination Speed |
7-14 days with ideal temps & moisture. |
Often 5-10 days thanks to warm, moist micro-environment. |
| Cost per 1,000 ft² |
$$ (lower material cost, higher labor if DIY) |
$$$ (professional application but far faster on large areas)
|
Dry seeding still shines for small patch repairs or when you already own a
broadcast spreader. For areas over 2,000 ft², HydroSeeding is usually
faster, more uniform, and achieves better germination rates—especially on
slopes.
✅ Keys to Successful Grass Germination
-
Proper Seeding Rate: Apply 6-8 lbs of our
PNW rye/fescue blend per 1,000 ft² for new lawns.
-
Consistent Moisture: Keep the top ½" of soil
damp—irrigate 3–4× daily (short cycles) until the first mow.
-
Light Top Pressure: After spreading, gently roll or
rake the seed so it nestles ⅛" deep and contact is firm.
-
Mulch / Cover: Use hydro-mulch, straw, or compost to
regulate temperature and deter birds.
-
Protect From Birds & Wind: Netting or a light
tackifier keeps seed where it belongs until sprouts anchor.
Ready for a Lush, Green Lawn?
Request a Free HydroSeeding Quote →
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