Best Perennial Grass Seed of 2025

Steven Taylor Avatar
Steven Taylor
Last Updated: Jan 17, 2025

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Perennial grass seed is a popular choice for those looking for a low-maintenance yet lush and green lawn. These grasses are known for their ability to grow back year after year, making them a great investment for homeowners. Perennial grass seed is also known for its resistance to drought and disease, making it a reliable option for those living in areas with harsh weather conditions. With its deep roots, perennial grass can also help prevent soil erosion and improve overall soil health. These qualities make perennial grass seed an excellent option for those looking to create a beautiful and sustainable lawn.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Fundamentals Grass Seed Perennial Ryegrass Mix Cover #TOP 1
Fundamentals Grass Seed Perennial Ryegrass Mix
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Scotts Turf Builder Perennial Ryegrass Mix Cover #TOP 2
Scotts Turf Builder Perennial Ryegrass Mix
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Pennington Smart Seed Perennial Ryegrass 3 lb Cover #TOP 3
Pennington Smart Seed Perennial Ryegrass 3 lb
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Perennial Grass Seed

Fundamentals Grass Seed Perennial Ryegrass Mix

18282
Brown
1 Count (Pack of 1)
Fundamentals Grass Seed Perennial Ryegrass Mix Cover
Fundamentals by Scotts Grass Seed Perennial Ryegrass Mix, Ideal for Sunny, High Traffic Areas and Erosion Control, 3 lbs.

Fundamentals Grass Seed Perennial Ryegrass Mix, also known as Scotts Grass Seed Mix, is a versatile and high-performing grass seed designed for sunny and high traffic areas. This uniquely formulated seed is perfect for yards that see a lot of activity and can thrive even in direct sunlight. One of its key features is its ability to establish quickly, helping to control erosion and prevent soil loss. Additionally, the grass seed mix is coated to absorb twice as much water, ensuring optimal germination and growth. With a 3 lb. bag, you can cover up to 375 sq. ft. for new lawns or 1,249 sq. ft. for reseeding. Scotts Grass Seed Mix is your go-to solution for achieving a lush and durable lawn in challenging areas.

What We Like
High germination rate
Fast growth
Cost-effective
Good color
Easy to use
What We Don't Like
Pricey for some

Scotts Turf Builder Perennial Ryegrass Mix

18039
5.6 lb.
5.6 lb.
Scotts Turf Builder Perennial Ryegrass Mix Cover
Scotts Turf Builder Grass Seed Perennial Ryegrass Mix with Fertilizer and Soil Improver, Establishes Quickly, 5.6 lbs.

The Scotts Perennial Ryegrass Mix is designed to help you establish a lush lawn quickly. With its unique Root-Building Nutrition, this blend enhances root growth, ensuring a robust and green lawn. It's suitable for both full sun and light shade, making it versatile for various yard conditions. This product is ideal for use in spring or fall, whether you're starting a new lawn or overseeding an existing one. By combining seed, fertilizer, and soil improver, it simplifies the lawn care process, allowing you to enjoy a healthier lawn with minimal effort.

What We Like
Thrives with ample water
Lush growth with fertilizer
Quick germination under proper care
Beautiful winter lawn
What We Don't Like
Weed growth observed
Mixed results reported
#TOP 3

Pennington Smart Seed Perennial Ryegrass 3 lb

100543717
3 lb
Pennington Smart Seed Perennial Ryegrass 3 lb Cover
Pennington 100543717 Smart Seed Perennial Ryegrass 3 lb, Black Label

Pennington Perennial Ryegrass is an excellent choice for those seeking a lush, fine-bladed lawn that maintains its color into winter. This grass seed is perfect for areas that receive 4 to 6 hours of sun and can provide results in as little as 8 to 14 days. It is ideal for both permanent cool-season lawns and temporary warm-season lawns. Using up to 30% less water, it is economically efficient, and the grass forms a dense lawn that can come back year after year. Its disease-resistant feature ensures that it can hold up well under foot traffic, making it perfect for those with kids and pets.

What We Like
High germination rate
Beautiful appearance
Cost-effective option
Good for overseeding
What We Don't Like
Some patchy growth
Thin and weak grass
#TOP 4

Trifecta II Gray Leaf Spot Resistant Ryegrass Blend

2867051
Green
Trifecta II Gray Leaf Spot Resistant Ryegrass Blend Cover
Trifecta II Gray Leaf Spot Resistant Perennial Ryegrass Blend 50 lb. Bag

The Trifecta II Ryegrass Blend is designed to resist gray leaf spot, featuring three high-performing varieties. With Exacta II GLSR ranked as the top choice for this resistance, you can be confident in the health of your lawn. When establishing a new lawn, you’ll need just 6 to 8 pounds per 1,000 square feet, covering large areas efficiently. Additionally, this blend germinates quickly, within 7 to 12 days, allowing you to enjoy a lush lawn sooner. It’s also perfect for overseeding warm-season grasses during the cooler months, giving you versatility throughout the year.

What We Like
Great price for quality seed
Correct varietals as advertised
Quick germination
Highly resistant to dog urine
Minimal fillers, 100% seed
What We Don't Like
Uncoated seed attracts birds
#TOP 5

Pennington Smart Seed Sun and Shade Grass Mix

100543719
7 lb
Pennington Smart Seed Sun and Shade Grass Mix Cover
Pennington 100543719 Smart Seed Sun and Shade Grass Mix 7 lb, Black Label

Pennington Smart Seed Sun & Shade is the perfect mix of Tall Fescue, Perennial Ryegrass, Kentucky Bluegrass and Fine Fescue to survive sun and moderate shade. This grass seed mix is disease resistant and drought tolerant and contains just the right amount of fertilizer to help your lawn succeed. It is ideal for lawns that receive sun in some parts and moderate shade in others. See results in 8 to 21 days and save up to 30% more water year after year versus ordinary grass seed. This 7-pound bag covers up to 2,330 sq. ft.

What We Like
Fast germination
Good for different sunlight areas
Easy to apply
High-quality seed mix
Positive customer experiences
What We Don't Like
High price point
Inconsistent seed coating
#TOP 6

Greenview Fairway Formula Grass Seed

2829353
Green
3 lb. Bag
Greenview Fairway Formula Grass Seed Cover
Greenview Fairway Formula Grass Seed Perennial Ryegrass Blend - 3 lb. Bag

The Greenview Fairway Formula Grass Seed Perennial Ryegrass Blend is an excellent choice for quick growth in high traffic areas and compacted soils. The uncoated seeds ensure maximum coverage, with 750 sq. ft. coverage for new lawns and 1,500 sq. ft. coverage for existing lawns. It has fast seed germination for quickly established lawns in just 7-10 days. The mixture of top-rated, premium quality seed blends is 99.9% weed-free. It is also great for overseeding warm season grasses during cooler months. Pair it with GreenView Fairway Formula Grass Seed Seeding Success for better results.

What We Like
Quick germination
Thick grass growth
Good performance in poor soil
Long-term user satisfaction
Dark green color
What We Don't Like
Inconsistent germination rates
Light green color in some areas
#TOP 7

ProTurf Perennial Ryegrass Fine Lawn Seed by Eretz (5lb)

Green
5lbs
ProTurf Perennial Ryegrass Fine Lawn Seed by Eretz (5lb) Cover
ProTurf Perennial Ryegrass Fine Lawn Seed by Eretz (5lb) - CHOOSE SIZE! Premium Willamette Valley, Oregon Grown Grass Seed

ProTurf Perennial Ryegrass Fine Lawn Seed by Eretz is a premium grass seed that is weed seed free with fine blade and dark green lawn. It can be mixed with other lawn seeds or with forage or cover crops. This seed grows quickly and is excellent for reseeding or new grass in lawns, yards, pasture, general turf or other places. It is a genuine, premium seed grown in Willamette Valley, Oregon.

What We Like
Quick germination
Beautiful lawn appearance
Effective in low sunlight
Higher germination rate than competitors
What We Don't Like
Occasional slow germination
#TOP 8

Outsidepride Fountain Grass Seeds

Brown
100 Seeds
Outsidepride Fountain Grass Seeds Cover
Outsidepride 100 Seeds Perennial Pennisetum Viridescens Fountain Ornamental Grass Seed for Planting

The Outsidepride Fountain Grass is easy to grow from seeds and is known for its striking appearance. With fuzzy flower spikes in a unique smoky purple-black hue, this grass adds a beautiful contrast to deep green foliage. Ideal for sunny landscapes, you can plant it as a standout accent or in groups for a stunning mass effect. This variety thrives in cooler climates and requires minimal care. By cutting it back in spring and applying a light fertilizer, you can ensure a healthy, vibrant growth. Once established, it is drought-tolerant and adaptable to various soil types.

What We Like
Seeds from Outsidepride
Successful germination in pots
Plants grew nicely
Excited to grow my own
What We Don't Like
Slow germination rate
Lack of seller communication

Barenbrug Turf Star Perennial Ryegrass Seed

Yellow
25 lbs
Barenbrug Turf Star Perennial Ryegrass Seed Cover
Barenbrug Turf Star Regenerating Perennial Ryegrass Lawn Seed with Yellow Jacket Seed Coating, Fast-Acting Durable Grass Seed Mix for Lawns, 25-lb. Bag

Barenbrug Turf Star Seed offers an advanced blend of perennial ryegrass designed to enhance your lawn throughout the year. With its fast germination, you can quickly enjoy a lush green space that establishes seamlessly, even when overseeding. The innovative RPR technology helps revive worn-out patches without the need for constant reseeding, making lawn care easier for you. Additionally, this grass thrives in demanding conditions, withstanding heavy foot traffic and resisting diseases and pests, ensuring your lawn remains beautiful and resilient.

What We Like
Fast germination
Full lawn coverage
Quality seed
Good color
Excellent results with proper preparation
What We Don't Like
High seed coating ratio
Inconsistent germination times

Jacklin Seed by Barenbrug - Heisman Mix

Brown
5 lbs (2,000 sq ft)
Jacklin Seed by Barenbrug - Heisman Mix Cover
Jacklin Seed by Barenbrug - Heisman Mix | 85% Kentucky Bluegrass, 15% Perennial Ryegrass | Certified Grass Seed (5 lbs (2,000 sq ft))

Pendelton Heisman Mix is a blend of 85% Kentucky Bluegrass and 15% Perennial Ryegrass, making it perfect for those looking for a lush, green lawn. The Kentucky Bluegrass provides durability and disease resistance, while the Perennial Ryegrass offers quick germination and wear resistance. This mix is ideal for high-traffic areas and can be used on residential lawns, athletic fields, and golf course roughs. Pendelton Heisman Mix can be seeded in the spring or fall, and germination time ranges from 5-21 days. With consistent soil temperatures above 50°F, your lawn will continue to thicken throughout the growing season. Plus, any purchase smaller than 50 lbs is repackaged into a resealable bag for your convenience.

What We Like
Quality choice for beautiful lawn
High germination percentage
No weed seed present
Quick growth in ideal conditions
What We Don't Like
Slow germination time
Higher price than alternatives
Buying Guide Image

Choose the Best Perennial Grass Seed for Your Needs

Introduction

Perennial grasses are an important part of any landscape. They provide ground cover, prevent erosion, and add visual interest to your yard. Choosing the right perennial grass seed can be a daunting task, but with a little knowledge and some careful planning, you can create a beautiful and sustainable lawn that will thrive for years to come.

Consider Your Climate

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing perennial grass seed is the climate in which you live. Different grasses are adapted to different conditions, so it's important to choose a variety that will thrive in your area. Cool-season grasses, such as fescues and ryegrasses, are best suited to colder climates, while warm-season grasses, such as bermudagrass and zoysiagrass, are better suited to warmer regions.

Determine Your Needs

Before choosing a grass seed, it's important to assess your lawn's needs. Consider the amount of sunlight and shade in your yard, the amount of foot traffic your lawn will receive, and whether you want a low-maintenance or high-maintenance lawn. Different grasses have different requirements and tolerances, so it's important to choose a variety that will meet your lawn's specific needs.

Research Your Options

Once you have a general idea of the type of grass that will work best in your climate and meet your lawn's needs, it's time to start researching your options. Read reviews and ask for recommendations from other gardeners in your area. You can also contact your local cooperative extension office for advice on the best grasses for your region.

Choose a Reputable Brand

When it comes to purchasing grass seed, it's important to choose a reputable brand. Look for seed that is certified by organizations such as the Seed Certification and Inspection Service (SCIS) or the Turfgrass Seed Council (TSC). These organizations ensure that the seed you purchase is of high quality and has been tested for germination and purity.

Conclusion

Choosing the right perennial grass seed can be a challenging task, but with a little research and planning, you can create a beautiful and sustainable lawn. Consider your climate, assess your lawn's needs, research your options, and choose a reputable brand to ensure that your grass will thrive for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Does perennial grass seed come back every year?

Yes, perennial grass seed, specifically perennial ryegrass, comes back every year. It goes through its growing season in the fall and winter, becomes dormant during the hot and dry months of summer, and then reawakens and regrows during the next winter.

2. How long does it take perennial grass seed to grow?

Perennial ryegrass, a type of perennial grass seed, has a rapid germination and seedling growth process. It typically germinates in about five to 14 days, provided that the right planting methods are followed.

3. What are the disadvantages of perennial ryegrass?

One of the main disadvantages of perennial ryegrass is its growth habit. Unlike many other turfgrass species, it forms clumps and cannot spread through stolons or rhizomes. This can result in a patchy appearance, requiring regular reseeding of bare spots as they won't fill in on their own.

4. Will grass reseed itself if you let it grow?

If you allow your grass to grow excessively, it will eventually go to seed. This can create issues, as the long blades of grass can be tough on your mower and detrimentally impact the overall appearance of your yard.

5. Can I just throw grass seed down on existing lawn?

Yes, overseeding is a technique where you spread grass seed over your existing lawn to thicken up thin areas and improve its overall appearance. This is different from reseeding, which involves starting over and planting a completely new lawn.

6. How late is too late to plant grass seed in Minnesota?

In Minnesota, the ideal time to plant grass seed is from late October to early December, when temperatures are cold enough for dormant seeding. Once the soil temperature drops below 50 degrees, grass seed will no longer germinate. Any seed planted during this time will remain dormant under the winter snow until spring.

Editor's Notes

During our perennial grass seed research, we found 24 perennial grass seed products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 46,620 customer reviews through our big data system to write the perennial grass seed list. We found that most customers choose perennial grass seed with an average price of $27.73.

The perennial grass seed are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of perennial grass seed, including Scotts, Pennington, Lebanon Seaboard, Greenview, Eretz. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Steven Taylor Avatar

Steven Taylor grew up in a small town called Beaufort in South Carolina and his passion for building and woodworking has led him to master the latest garden gadgets. He always holds every chance to patch up or sand down his beloved garden. There are various novel technologies in his articles.

Perennial Grass Seed Comparison Table

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Brand Scotts Scotts Pennington Lebanon Seaboard Pennington Greenview Eretz Outsidepride Barenbrug Pendelton Turf Supply
Plant or Animal Product Type grass,grass seed grass seed Grass Seeds grass Grass Seeds Grass Seed grass,grass seed Flower grass seed Grass
Sunlight Exposure Full Sun Full Sun 4-6 Hours Full Sun 4-6 Hours Sun and Shade Full Sun, Partial Shade, Partial Sun Full Sun Full Sun Full or Partial Sun
Unit Count 48.0 Ounce 1.0 Count 48.0 Ounce 800.0 Ounce 112.0 Ounce 48.0 Ounce 80.0 Ounce 100.0 Count 400.0 Ounce 80.0 Ounce
Item Weight 3.12 pounds 5.72 pounds 3 Pounds 52.5 pounds 7 Pounds 3 Pounds 5.06 pounds 4.54 g 25.2 pounds 5 Pounds
Expected Blooming Period Spring Fall spring,winter - Spring Spring to Fall summer,winter,year round Spring to Fall Summer Spring to Fall
Moisture Needs Regular Watering Regular Watering Moderate Watering - Moderate Watering Constant Watering Regular Watering Little To No Watering Moderate Watering Regular Watering
Color Brown 5.6 lb. - Green - Green Green Brown Yellow Brown
Special Feature - Durability Smart Seed Perennial Ryegrass - Smart Seed Sun and Shade Grass Mix Drought Tolerant, Pet Friendly, High Germination Rate Premium Extended Bloom Time - Durable,Rapid
Expected Planting Period - Spring Spring - Spring Spring or Fall - Spring Summer Spring to Fall
Product Care Instructions Water Water Water - Water Pair with GreenView Fairway Formula Seeding Success, a one-step starter fertilizer and seeding mulch that guarantees successful seed germination - moist soil - -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
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