Expert Gardener Sun And Shade Grass Seed

Transforming Your Lawn With the Perfect Grass Seed Blend

Having a lush, green lawn is the dream for many homeowners. But growing and maintaining a beautiful lawn is easier said than done. Many lawns end up with bare, patchy spots or struggle to thrive in sun and shade. The key to lawn success lies in finding the right grass seed. With so many options on the market, it can be tricky to decide which seed is best for your needs. That’s where Expert Gardener Sun and Shade Grass Seed really shines. This versatile grass seed mix delivers a lush lawn that thrives anywhere the sun shines.

In this complete buying guide, I’ll share everything you need to know about Expert Gardener Sun and Shade Grass Seed. You’ll learn what makes this seed so special, how to properly plant and care for it, and why it’s my top recommendation for establishing a gorgeous lawn. Let’s get growing!

What Is Expert Gardener Sun and Shade Grass Seed?

Expert Gardener Sun and Shade Grass Seed is a premium grass seed mix made for optimal performance in both sunny and shady areas. It contains several grass varieties selected for their ability to thrive in diverse conditions. This versatility makes it ideal for lawns with a range of sun exposures.

The blend includes improved tall fescue, heat-tolerant perennial ryegrass, and shade-tolerant fine fescue. Together, these grasses provide a dense turf that withstands heat, drought, pests, diseases, and moderate foot traffic. The mix establishes quickly and forms a lush, emerald green lawn.

Expert Gardener designed this seed to simplify lawn care. You can use one bag to establish or repair grass in sun, shade, or mixed sunlight. No more guessing which seed type you need! This versatility makes Expert Gardener Sun and Shade a top seller among homeowners and landscapers.

How To Use Expert Gardener Sun and Shade Grass Seed

Expert Gardener Sun and Shade Grass Seed can tackle most lawn planting or repair jobs. Here are some of the most common ways to use this grass seed blend:

New Lawn Installation

This seed mix is well-suited for sowing a new lawn from scratch. Just clear and prepare the area, spread the seed according to package directions, and water regularly until established. With proper care, you’ll have a full lawn in as little as 2-3 weeks.

Overseeding Sparse Lawns

To fill in thin or patchy areas of an existing lawn, you can overseed with Expert Gardener. This process involves spreading more seed over the bare spots to thicken up growth. Overseeding in early fall helps the grass fill in fully before winter dormancy.

Repairing Damaged Areas

Damaged or dead areas of grass can be repaired by reseeding with this mix. First remove debris, loosen the soil, apply a starter fertilizer, and sow the seed. With adequate moisture, germination will begin within 5-10 days.

Improving Poorly Performing Lawns

For lawns that struggle with shade, heat stress, or other issues, overseeding with Expert Gardener can strengthen the turf. The improved grass varieties will overtake weaker varieties over time.

Does It Work In All Climates?

A common question about any grass seed is whether it will perform well in your local climate. Expert Gardener Sun and Shade Grass Seed contains a blend of grasses selected for improved hardiness across a wide range of climates.

Cool and Cold Climates

The fine fescue and perennial ryegrass cultivars thrive in cool northern regions. Their tolerance of cold winters helps the lawn stay healthy year-round. This seed can establish even when sown in late fall before winter dormancy.

Hot and Humid Climates

In southern regions with scorching summers, the improved heat-tolerant ryegrass and fescue varieties excel. Their resilience to heat, humidity, and drought keeps the lawn lush.

Dry and Desert Climates

For low rainfall areas, the blend’s drought-resistant fescue and ryegrass components provide reliable performance. Their improved water efficiency allows them to better withstand dry conditions.

Growth Timeline: When Will the Grass Grow?

Once you’ve planted Expert Gardener Sun and Shade Grass Seed, how long does it take to grow in? Here’s a general timeline:

• 5-10 days: The seed will begin to germinate. Sprouts will start peeking up from the soil.
• 2-3 weeks: The new grass plants will elongate and continue growing stronger roots. The lawn will look patchy but coverage will expand.
• 4-5 weeks: The lawn should fill in noticeably and require its first mowing. Grass will still be thin but growing rapidly.
• 6-8 weeks: The lawn should achieve full establishment, with blades thickening up for good coverage. Mowing weekly is likely needed at this point.
• 8+ weeks: The lawn will be mature enough for moderate foot traffic and activity. Maintain by mowing high and watering during dry periods.

Proper seeding, watering, fertilizing, and sunlight will optimize the growth rate. But remember that grass seed can take 2-3 months to fully establish in optimal conditions. Be patient!

Does This Seed Work in Shady Areas?

One of the biggest advantages of this seed is that it’s formulated to grow well in both sun and shade. This versatility makes it invaluable for yards with a mix of sunlight exposures.

The fine fescue in the blend is a cool-season species that thrives in shaded environments. Its shade tolerance comes from growing well under lower light conditions. It forms a slightly thinner turf than the ryegrass and fescue, creating a lush carpet of soft blades.

You’ll get the best shade results by using this mix when overseeding thin spots under trees or buildings. The fine fescue will fill in bare patches the other grasses miss. Its inclusion makes Expert Gardener one of the best shade grass seed products available.

What Grass Types Are In This Seed Mix?

Expert Gardener Sun and Shade Grass Seed contains several compatible grass species blended together, including:

• Tall Fescue: A bunch-type fescue that forms deep roots. The improved varieties resist heat, drought, and pests. Grows well in sun but tolerates some shade. Provides the base of the blend.
• Perennial Ryegrass: Green, narrow ryegrass adds fine texture and quick establishment. Improved cultivars withstand cold, heat, and foot traffic. Blends nicely with tall fescues.
• Chewings and Fine Fescue: Fine-textured grasses that excel at growing in shade. Their mix of different fescues fills in thinly shaded areas other grasses miss. Softens the overall look.

This diverse blend creates synergy! Each grass complements the others, delivering a lush, full lawn in varied conditions. And the bunching growth habit leaves little room for weeds to intrude.

How Much Seed Do I Need?

To determine how much Expert Gardener Sun and Shade Grass Seed you’ll need, calculate the square footage of the lawn or bare spot, then follow the recommended seeding rates:

• Seeding a new lawn: Use 8-10 lbs of seed per 1000 sq. ft.
• Overseeding thin areas: Use 5-7 lbs of seed per 1000 sq. ft.
• Spot seeding patches: Sprinkle 1-3 lbs per 100 sq. ft.

Divide the square footage by 1000, then multiply by the lbs of seed needed per 1000 sq. ft. This gives you the total lbs of seed required. Having extra seed on hand is better than not having enough!

Using This Seed On Patchy Spots

Patchy, thin spots in an existing lawn are prime candidates for overseeding with Expert Gardener Sun and Shade Grass Seed. Just follow these steps:

1. Mow the lawn short and remove debris from bare spots. Loosen soil a bit with a rake.
2. Apply a thin layer of compost or grass seed starter fertilizer.
3. Spread seed according to package directions.
4. Lightly rake seeds into soil surface.
5. Water gently daily to keep top 1/2 inch moist until sprouted.
6. Let new grass establish for 4-6 weeks before resuming normal mowing and foot traffic.

The new grass will germinate in 5-10 days and fill in fully in about a month with proper care. Overseeding in fall allows patches to repair before winter dormancy.

Where To Buy This Premium Grass Seed

Expert Gardener grass seeds are available from several major retailers:

• SiteOne Landscape Supply: Landscaper supplier with stores across the US. Offers bulk sizes.
• Home Depot: Large selection of Expert Gardener seeds like this sun and shade mix. Stores nationwide.
• Ace Hardware: Neighborhood hardware stores stocking lawn care essentials.
• Walmart: Budget-friendly pricing on grass seed bags.
• Amazon: Order online and get bags shipped directly to your door.

I recommend buying from a supplier with rapid stock turnover to ensure fresh seed. And check the expiration date on bags before purchasing. For the best results, sow seed within 1 year of harvest.

Does The Seed Come With Fertilizer?

Expert Gardener Sun and Shade Grass Seed contains only grass species, with no additional fertilizers, fungicides, or coatings. This allows flexibility in amending and preparing soil prior to planting.

While starter fertilizer isn’t pre-mixed in, I highly recommend applying a specially formulated grass seed starter fertilizer before sowing. This “jumpstarts” root development and provides vital nutrients for faster establishment.

Choose an all-in-one starter fertilizer with phosphorus for rooting, nitrogen for green growth, and potassium for hardiness. Apply as directed on packaging 1-2 days before laying down grass seed for best results.

Watering Tips for Seeded Lawns

Proper watering is crucial after planting grass seed like Expert Gardener Sun and Shade. Follow these tips:

• Light & frequent: Water several times per day, keeping top 1/2 inch of soil moist. Avoid runoff.
• Gradually reduce: Once sprouted, water less frequently but deeply to encourage rooting.
• Morning is best: Water early to prevent fungal diseases and evaporation loss.
• Observe closely: Look for signs of drying out or overwatering and adjust as needed.
• Consider misting: In hot weather, misting seedlings prevents wilting and drying out between waterings.
• Water established lawns: 1-1.5 inches of water weekly from rain or irrigation is ideal for maintenance.

Careful attention to water needs will ensure your new grass gets off to the healthiest start possible! Adjust as needed based on weather and soil type.

How Much Area Will One Bag Cover?

One 20 lb. bag of Expert Gardener Sun and Shade Grass Seed will cover the following areas:

• Seeding a new lawn: Covers approx. 2000-2500 sq. ft. at the recommended rate of 8-10 lbs per 1000 sq. ft.
• Overseeding bare spots: Covers approx. 2800-4000 sq. ft. at 5-7 lbs per 1000 sq. ft. sowing rate.
• Patch seeding thin areas: Covers 200-300 sq. ft per lb of seed used over bare spots.

To determine how many bags you need, measure your lawn’s square footage and divide by the maximum area one bag covers. Include some buffer so you don’t come up short! Having extra seed allows for reseeding if the first attempt doesn’t take.

Does This Grass Seed Resist Drought?

Periods of heat and drought stress can spell disaster for subpar grass seed varieties. That’s why the improved cultivars in Expert Gardener Sun and Shade were selected for enhanced drought resistance and water efficiency.

The strong root systems of the tall fescue and perennial ryegrass components enable them to seek out moisture from deep in the soil. Their hardy blades better withstand heat stress and temporary wilt compared to less improved varieties.

However, no grass seed can survive prolonged severe drought without irrigation. Some drying out will cause temporary dormancy, but the seed varieties used in this blend will recover well once adequate rainfall resumes. Drought resistance just improves their chances!

Overseeding Tips For Existing Lawns

Expert Gardener Sun and Shade Grass Seed works great when overseeding sparse, struggling lawns. Here are tips to maximize success:

• Mow low and remove debris to expose soil before seeding.
• Use a slice seeder for better seed-to-soil contact if possible.
• Choose early fall as the ideal time for cool-season lawns.
• Water lightly 3-5 times daily to keep seedbed moist until germination.
• Allow new grass to reach 3 inches tall before first mowing. Set blades high.
• Refrain from heavy traffic on newly overseeded areas for 4-6 weeks.
• Reseed damaged spots as needed throughout the season to maintain density.

Overseeding strengthens thinning lawns by filling bare spots and allowing superior grass varieties to populate. Just be sure not to scalp or smother existing grass in the process!

Pet and Kid Safety: Is This Seed Pet-Friendly?

Good news for pet owners: the grass varieties in Expert Gardener Sun and Shade pose no toxicity risks to dogs or cats once established. Like most standard lawn and turf grasses, they are 100% pet-friendly!

I always recommend keeping dogs and cats off newly seeded areas for 4-6 weeks until the young grass plants are mature. This prevents seeds from being dug up or seedlings getting trampled. But once the lawn is filled in, feel free to unleash the furry friends!

And for households with small kids, this seed also establishes a soft, lush lawn perfect for playtime. The fine fescues and ryegrasses form a cushioned, dense turf. Just take care to avoid overly roughhousing on newly seeded areas until the grass takes root. Then it’s playtime!

What Is The Germination Rate?

The seeds of improved grass varieties germinate at a higher rate than common types thanks to extensive plant breeding. Expert Gardener Sun and Shade Grass Seed delivers guaranteed 85% minimum germination for the tall fescue and perennial ryegrass components.

That means under test conditions, at least 85% of seeds successfully sprouted. The National Turfgrass Evaluation Program found rates averaging 93% for several tested cultivars. This exceptional germination enables the seed to establish quickly.

Fine fescues have slightly lower germination in the 75-85% range but still perform well. Overall, you can expect great germination and sprouting within 5-10 days of sowing this premium grass seed mix. Proper planting, watering, sunlight, and soil preparation optimize it further.

How Does This Seed Perform in Cold Climates?

Enduring frigid winters is trying for any lawn. That’s why the Expert Gardener blend utilizes cold-hardy grass cultivars bred to withstand freezes and snow cover.

The fine fescue components evolved in northern cool climates, so they excel at surviving short days and subzero temperatures. Their bunching growth insulates the base during winter.

Perennial ryegrass also boasts impressive cold tolerance thanks to extensive adaptation. The hardy ryegrass roots remain healthy and prepared to rebound each spring.

So while no lawn will look lush during winter dormancy, this seed mix survives wonderfully given its blend of grasses bred for seasonal cold hardiness. Come spring, it greens up beautifully.

How Does This Seed Compare to Other Brands?

Expert Gardener sets the gold standard when it comes to versatile sun and shade grass seed blends. Here’s how it stacks up to competitors:

• More diverse mix of grasses than average for varied light adaptation.
• Rigorously tested and bred cultivars proven for reliable performance.
• Renowned 85%+ germination rates for fast establishment.
• No coatings or fillers like some brands use. Pure high-quality seed.
• Exceptional tolerance of heat, cold, foot traffic, pests, and disease.
• Grass plants exhibit excellent density and texture for ideal lawn aesthetics.

The proof is in the results – gorgeous seeded lawns that homeowners rave about year after year. No wonder it’s the brand preferred by professionals.

When Should I Plant This Grass Seed?

Timing matters when seeding a new lawn or overseeding an existing one. Here are the optimal planting times:

• Early fall: The ideal window for sowing cool-season grasses like fescue and rye. Near the fall equinox timing.
• Late fall: Sow just before winter dormancy sets in for germination the following spring. Risk of failure increases.
• Early spring: As soil thaws, new grass will sprout quickly thanks to warmer soil. Avoid muddy conditions.
• Summer: Challenging due to heat and drought stresses. Requires meticulous irrigation and care.

I recommend fall seeding for best results with Expert Gardener Sun and Shade Grass Seed. But spring and summer are doable with extra diligence. Just don’t sow during winter’s deepest dormancy!