Lawn Care Tip – Pre-Germinating Grass Seed

Here’s a simple trick I’ve been using for about 10 years: pre-germinating grass seed. I actually learned this from an older gentleman who once told me, “You can grow grass on a rock, as long as you keep it wet.” That idea stuck with me, and it works especially well for those stubborn bare spots in your lawn.

How it works:

  1. Start by mixing your grass seed with a material that holds moisture. I usually use sawdust because I have it on hand, but topsoil or peat moss works just as well.
  2. Add water and mix everything together in a wheelbarrow.
  3. Cover the mixture with a tarp to keep moisture in.
  4. Over the next 3–4 days, continue to add water and mix it occasionally to keep it damp.

Jonathan Green (10620) Black Beauty Dense Shade Grass Seed - Cool Season Lawn Seed (7 lb)

Buy Now

After a few days, you’ll notice the seeds beginning to germinate.

At that point, take a shovel or two of your pre-germinated seed mix and combine it with a full wheelbarrow of topsoil. Spread this over the bare or problem areas in your lawn.

What to expect:
Within 4–5 days, you should start seeing grass growing. The key from here is simple: keep it watered. If you don’t water it, it won’t grow, plain and simple.

This method really does work, and it’s a great way to give your grass a head start. I hope it helps if you’re dealing with any trouble spots in your yard.

Thanks for reading, and I’ll see you in the next one!

Back to blog
...