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Best Grass Seed For North Carolina (2025 Update)

If you’re looking for the best grass seed for North Carolina, you’ve come to the right place. Choosing the right grass seed can be a daunting task, as there are many factors to consider before making a purchase. For instance, you need to consider the weather conditions, soil type, and the amount of sunlight your yard receives. It’s essential to select the grass seed that is best suited for your specific lawn.

Before buying grass seed, it’s essential to consider whether you want to plant cool-season or warm-season grass. Cool-season grasses like tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass are best for lawns in the northern regions of North Carolina, while warm-season grasses like Bermuda grass and zoysia grass are suitable for lawns in the southern regions. You also need to determine the amount of traffic that your lawn receives and whether you need low-maintenance grass.

Do you want a carpet-like lawn, or one that is soft and lush? Do you want to cultivate a lawn that’s resistant to pests and diseases? What type of soil do you have in your yard? Answering these questions will help you determine the best grass seed for your yard. Keep in mind that the right grass seed can make a significant difference in the appearance and longevity of your lawn. Therefore, take the time to research and pick the perfect grass seed for your yard.

10 Best Grass Seed For North Carolina

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
It is ideal for patching and repairing bald spots in both sunny and shaded areas of the lawn.
2
This product is ideal for improving lawns with a mix of sun and shade conditions by providing seed and fertilizer.
3
Ideal for lawns that are exposed to heat, drought, and diseases, requiring a mix of grass seed resistant to these factors.
4
Ideal for growing tall fescue lawns in harsh conditions.
5
Ideal for repairing bare spots and covering up to 225 sq. ft. on tall fescue lawns with a combination seed, mulch, and fertilizer mix.
6
Ideal for growing healthy and hardy grass in the Northeast region with a variety of sun exposure and soil types.
7
This grass seed is ideal for growing lush and healthy cool-season lawns.
8
The product is ideal for repairing and renovating lawns in areas with varying levels of sun exposure.
9
This grass seed is ideal for growing a lush and healthy cool season lawn.
10
Ideal for growing a shade-tolerant, soft turf/lawn with a blend of fine fescue grass seed.
It is ideal for patching and repairing bald spots in both sunny and shaded areas of the lawn.
This product is ideal for improving lawns with a mix of sun and shade conditions by providing seed and fertilizer.
Ideal for lawns that are exposed to heat, drought, and diseases, requiring a mix of grass seed resistant to these factors.
Ideal for growing tall fescue lawns in harsh conditions.
Ideal for repairing bare spots and covering up to 225 sq. ft. on tall fescue lawns with a combination seed, mulch, and fertilizer mix.
Ideal for growing healthy and hardy grass in the Northeast region with a variety of sun exposure and soil types.
This grass seed is ideal for growing lush and healthy cool-season lawns.
The product is ideal for repairing and renovating lawns in areas with varying levels of sun exposure.
This grass seed is ideal for growing a lush and healthy cool season lawn.
Ideal for growing a shade-tolerant, soft turf/lawn with a blend of fine fescue grass seed.

1. Scotts Ez Seed Patch And Repair Sun And Shade For Grass: Covers Up To 225 Sq. Ft., 10 Lb.

Introducing a revolutionary seeding mix that can grow grass anywhere, with a guaranteed result (subject to proper care). This mix is a combination of Scotts' best high-performance grass seed, mulch, fertilizer, tackifier, and protectant, all working together to ensure a healthy and lush lawn.

The grass seed used in this mix is of the highest quality and performance, ensuring a fast and robust growth. The mulch is designed to absorb 6X its weight in water and expands to surround the seed, creating a moist and protective layer. This layer helps to retain water and provide the necessary moisture for germination.

The fertilizer in this mix uses an exclusive controlled-release technology that feeds seedlings to jumpstart their growth. This ensures that the grass seedlings get the necessary nutrients to establish strong roots, leading to a healthy and vibrant lawn. The tackifier helps to keep the seed from washing away during heavy rains or watering.

The protectant in this mix is designed to keep newly planted areas safe from harmful diseases that can attack young seedlings. This layer of protection ensures a healthy and robust lawn growth. The mix can grow in full sun and dense shade, high traffic areas, and on slopes.

This revolutionary seeding mix can seed up to 225 sq. ft of lawn, making it suitable for small and medium-sized areas. This mix is not available in Hawaii.

2. Pennington Lawn Booster Sun & Shade Mix Grass Seed & Fertilizer 9.6 Lb

This high-quality grass seed mix is perfect for those looking to improve their lawn's appearance while also being environmentally conscious. The Smart Seed premium grade grass mixes included require up to 30% less water year after year compared to ordinary seed, making it a great option for those looking to conserve water.

In addition to the grass seed, this 3 in 1 product also includes premium fertilizer that continuously releases nitrogen for up to 8 weeks. This ensures that your lawn stays healthy and nourished for an extended period of time. The lime included in the mix enhances seed germination and improves grass growth and color.

The product also includes gypsum which helps to loosen up the soil, allowing the grass to take root more easily. This results in a thicker, more robust lawn that looks great all year round.

With a coverage area of up to 1,200 square feet, this grass seed mix is perfect for those with medium-sized lawns. It produces a thick, fine-bladed, dark blue-green lawn that is sure to impress.

3. Heat-Tolerant Blue Mix For Lush Lawns

Looking for a reliable way to ensure proper growth and durability of your lawn? Look no further than this top-quality grass seed mix, specially designed to thrive in full sun and partial shade with high drought resistance.

Featuring a powerful 4 in 1 WaterSmart PLUS Coating, this seed mix is designed to absorb more water than uncoated seed, feed your lawn with essential nutrients, and help protect seedlings from disease. With Scotts best seed included, this mix provides the ultimate protection for your lawn, keeping seedlings moist 2x longer than uncoated seed and jumpstarting growth for a lush, healthy lawn.

This mix is specially crafted with a blend of tall fescue and bluegrass seed, providing deep roots and unparalleled durability for your lawn. With the ability to seed up to 750 sq. ft., you can enjoy a vibrant, healthy lawn that will stand up to even the toughest conditions.

Trust in the quality and reliability of this top-quality grass seed mix to help you achieve the perfect lawn. So, get ready to enjoy a beautiful, green lawn with this top-quality grass seed mix!

4. Southern Gold Tall Fescue – Harsh Condition Savior

The Scotts Turf Builder Grass Seed Southern Gold Mix is a high-quality grass seed mix that is specifically designed to withstand harsh conditions such as heat and drought. This Southern grass seed mix is the perfect solution for lawns that are exposed to the harsh summer conditions of sun, shade, and high traffic. With its medium-coarse bladed texture and high drought resistance, this grass seed mix is sure to thrive in even the harshest of conditions.

One of the key features of this grass seed mix is its exclusive 4 in 1 WaterSmart PLUS Coating. This specially designed coating is designed to absorb more water, feed the seedlings with essential nutrients, and protect them from disease. With this advanced coating, your lawn will be able to grow healthy and strong, even in the toughest of conditions.

This grass seed mix is capable of seeding up to 1,750 square feet, making it a great option for larger lawns. However, it is important to note that this product is not available in all states. Currently, it is only available in AL, AR, DE, FL, GA, KY, LA, MD, MO, MS, NC, OK, SC, TN, TX, VA, WA, and WV.

5. Fescue Fixer: Mulch, Seed, Fertilizer In One!

The combination mulch, seed, and fertilizer is a top-performing product designed to grow grass in any area, whether it's in full sun, dense shade, high traffic areas, or on slopes. This product, subject to proper care, guarantees a lush and healthy lawn.

The mulch component is highly absorbent, capable of absorbing up to six times its weight in water. As it expands, it surrounds the seed in a moist layer, providing a protective layer for the seed to grow. This feature ensures that the seed remains moist, leading to successful germination and growth.

The grass seed component is Scotts' best high-performance grass seed, ensuring a healthy and vibrant lawn. The seed is specifically selected to thrive in various conditions, making it perfect for any lawn.

The fertilizer component is unique, featuring exclusive controlled-release technology that feeds seedlings to jumpstart growth. This technology ensures that the seedlings receive the necessary nutrients for optimal growth.

Moreover, the product includes a tackifier that helps keep the seed from washing away, ensuring that the seed remains in place and leads to successful growth.

6. Pennington Smart Seed Northeast Grass Mix 7 Lb

Introducing a premium grass seed mix, carefully crafted with Kentucky Bluegrass, Perennial Ryegrass, and Fine Fescues. Designed to thrive in both summer heat and harsh winters, this seed mix is the perfect solution for a lush and healthy lawn all year round.

With just the right amount of fertilizer, this grass seed mix helps to nourish your lawn and ensure its success. Ideal for areas that receive 4 to 6 hours of sunlight, this grass seed mix boasts excellent disease resistance and very good drought tolerance.

Not only does this grass seed mix promote a healthy lawn, but it also helps to conserve water. Save up to 30% more water year after year compared to ordinary grass seed.

This product is guaranteed to grow, and you will start to see results in just 8 to 14 days. One bag covers up to an impressive 2,330 sq. ft., making it an economical and practical choice for homeowners.

Transform your lawn into a beautiful and healthy outdoor space with this premium grass seed mix.

7. Jonathan Green (10323) Black Beauty Ultra Grass Seed – Cool Season Lawn Seed (25 Lb)

Looking for a fast-acting grass seed mix that will establish a beautiful, dark green lawn? Look no further than Black Beauty Ultra Grass Seed. This high-quality mix is designed to quickly germinate and establish new lawns, as well as fill in bare spots in existing lawns to create a dense, healthy, and attractive turf.

One of the key benefits of Black Beauty Ultra is its ability to retain moisture. With roots that can grow up to 4-feet deep and a waxy leaf coating, this grass seed mix is able to preserve moisture and limit evaporation, making it an excellent choice for areas that receive heavy foot traffic or hot, dry weather.

This grass seed mix is made up of a blend of tall fescues, Kentucky bluegrass, and perennial ryegrass, which work together to create a dark-green lawn that is both durable and attractive. And with the ability to cover up to 5,000 sq. ft. for new lawns and up to 10,000 sq. ft. for overseeding, this 25 lb bag is an excellent value.

For best results, Black Beauty Ultra should be planted in full sun to partial shade, ideally between mid-August and mid-October or mid-March through mid-May. With a germination time of just 7-14 days, you'll be enjoying a beautiful, healthy lawn in no time. So why wait? Order your bag of Black Beauty Ultra Grass Seed today and start enjoying a beautiful lawn tomorrow.

8. Pennington Smart Patch Sun And Shade Mix 10 Lb

The Smart Seed, Fertilizer, and Mulch is a top-notch lawn care product that delivers excellent results. This product is specifically designed to repair bare spots on your lawn and promote healthy growth. With its unique formula, it contains a tackifier that protects the seed from washing away on slopes, hills, and during rainfall.

The Smart Seed, Fertilizer, and Mulch is made from a special blend of American Rye, Perennial Rye, and Kentucky Bluegrass that is perfect for both sunny and shaded areas of your lawn. These grass types are carefully selected to ensure that your lawn is lush, green, and healthy.

In addition to promoting healthy growth, this product also contains microbials that help prevent disease and improve overall lawn health. The tackifier acts as a blanket that protects the seed from washing away, ensuring that your lawn gets the maximum benefit from the product.

The Smart Seed, Fertilizer, and Mulch also contains mulch that turns a lighter color when dry, indicating when it's time to water your lawn again. This feature is especially useful for those who want to conserve water as it helps to save up to 30% more water year after year compared to ordinary grass seed.

This lawn care product contains the perfect amount of fertilizer to help your lawn succeed and thrive. It is ideal for lawns that receive sun in some areas and moderate shade in others. With a seedling emergence time of as little as 5 days, you can expect to see results quickly.

9. Jonathan Green (10322) Black Beauty Ultra Grass Seed – Cool Season Lawn Seed (7 Lb)

Black Beauty Ultra Grass Seed is the perfect solution for homeowners who want a lush, green lawn. With its quick germination rate, this grass seed mix establishes new yards and fills in bare spots in no time. It is ideal for invigorating thin or damaged lawns and producing healthy, dense, and attractive turf with a dark-green color.

One of the standout features of Black Beauty Ultra Grass Seed is its ability to retain moisture. The roots can grow up to 4-feet deep, and the waxy leaf coating limits evaporation, even in areas with heavy traffic. This makes it an excellent choice for homeowners who want a beautiful lawn but don't want to spend a lot of time watering or maintaining it.

To achieve the best results, this grass seed mix requires full sun to partial shade. The ideal time to apply is mid-August to mid-October, while the ground is still warm and the nights are cooler. However, it can also be planted during mid-March through mid-May. The germination time is 7-14 days.

Each 7 lb bag of Black Beauty Ultra Grass Seed can seed up to 1,400 sq. ft. for new lawns and up to 2,800 sq. ft. for overseeding. This means that homeowners can achieve complete coverage with just one bag, making it an affordable and convenient option.

10. Outsidepride Legacy Fine Fescue Shade Tolerant, Soft, Turf, Lawn Grass Seed Blend – 5 Lbs

The Legacy Fine Fescue Grass Seed is a perfect solution for those who want to achieve a dark green and fine-bladed lawn. It is a perennial seed that can be used in various areas such as lawns, parks, and golf courses. The seed blend is suitable for growing in full sun in cooler climates and moderately shady areas, but it is not recommended for use in the deep South.

One of the best things about this grass seed is its tremendous cold tolerance, which makes it an ideal choice for those living in the northern and transition zones where cold-tolerant grass is a must. The blend consists of hard fescue, chewings fescue, and creeping red fescue, which creates an immaculate lawn that looks beautiful and is easy to maintain.

Fine fescues are known to perform well in soils with low fertility, which makes them an excellent choice for those who do not want to spend a lot of time and money on lawn maintenance. To achieve a new turf, it is recommended to sow 4-5 lbs of the Legacy Fine Fescue Grass Seed per 1,000 square feet of the lawn you desire.

Best Grass Seed For North Carolina FAQs

Are there any grass seed blends specifically designed for North Carolina?

Yes, there are grass seed blends that are specifically designed for North Carolina. Due to the climate and soil conditions unique to the region, there are certain types of grasses that are better suited for North Carolina than others. Some popular grass seed blends for North Carolina include those that contain a mix of Bermuda grass, zoysia grass, and fescue grass. Bermuda grass and zoysia grass are warm-season grasses that thrive in the hot and humid summers common in North Carolina, while fescue grass is a cool-season grass that can withstand the colder temperatures of the state's winters. It is important to choose the right type of grass seed blend for your specific location within North Carolina, as soil and weather conditions can vary throughout the state. Consulting with a local lawn care professional can help you determine the best grass seed blend for your particular needs.

Are there any grass seed types that are particularly drought-resistant in North Carolina?

Yes, there are several grass seed types that are particularly drought-resistant in North Carolina. One of the most popular is Bermuda grass, which is a warm-season grass that can tolerate extreme heat and drought conditions. Another good option is Zoysia grass, which is also a warm-season grass that has a deep root system and can survive long periods without water. Tall fescue is a cool-season grass that is also drought-resistant and can remain green even during dry spells. However, it is important to note that even drought-resistant grasses may require some watering during prolonged periods of drought to maintain their health and appearance. Additionally, it is recommended to choose a grass type that is well-suited to the local climate and soil conditions, and to properly prepare the soil before planting to ensure optimal growth and resilience.

Can I use warm-season grass seed in North Carolina's cooler areas?

It is not recommended to use warm-season grass seed in North Carolina's cooler areas. Warm-season grasses grow best in hot and humid climates, and they can struggle to survive in colder temperatures. In North Carolina, the cooler areas experience temperatures that dip below the optimal range for warm-season grasses, which can result in poor growth and a patchy lawn.

Instead, it is advisable to use cool-season grasses in North Carolina's cooler areas, such as tall fescue, Kentucky bluegrass, and ryegrass. These grasses are better adapted to cooler temperatures and can thrive in North Carolina's climate. Before planting any type of grass seed, it's essential to research the specific requirements of the grass and the climate of the area to ensure successful growth and a healthy lawn.

How do I choose the right grass seed for my North Carolina lawn?

Choosing the right grass seed for your North Carolina lawn depends on several factors such as climate, soil type, and the amount of sunlight your lawn receives. In North Carolina, the most common grass types are Bermuda, Zoysia, and Fescue. Bermuda grass is best suited for warm climates and can withstand drought conditions, while Zoysia grass is a good choice for lawns that receive a moderate amount of sun. Fescue grass, on the other hand, is a cool-season grass that is ideal for lawns in the mountainous regions of North Carolina.

To choose the right grass seed, you should first determine the type of soil you have in your lawn. Sandy soils require grasses that can tolerate drought, while clay soils need grasses that can tolerate heavy rainfall. You should also consider the amount of foot traffic your lawn receives. If you have pets or children who frequently play on your lawn, you will need a grass type that can withstand heavy foot traffic.

It is also important to consider the amount of time and effort you are willing to put into maintaining your lawn. Some grass types require more maintenance than others, such as regular mowing, fertilizing, and watering. You should choose a grass type that fits your lifestyle and maintenance capabilities.

Lastly, consider consulting with a local lawn care professional or nursery to help you choose the right grass seed for your North Carolina lawn. They can provide you with expert advice on the best grass types for your specific lawn conditions.

How do I ensure successful growth and maintenance of grass seed in North Carolina's climate?

To ensure successful growth and maintenance of grass seed in North Carolina's climate, it is essential to select the appropriate grass species that are suitable for the region's warm and humid climate. Bermuda grass, Zoysia, and Fescue are some of the most common grass types that are best suited for North Carolina's climate.

Before planting the grass seed, it is crucial to prepare the soil by removing any debris and ensuring that the soil is loose and well-drained. It is also recommended to add organic matter to the soil, such as compost or peat moss, to provide the necessary nutrients for the grass to grow.

When planting the grass seed, it is important to follow the recommended seeding rate, which varies depending on the grass species. Regular watering is also critical during the establishment period, which is typically two to four weeks after planting.

After the grass has established, it is important to maintain it by mowing regularly, fertilizing as needed, and watering deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth. It is also recommended to aerate the soil periodically to alleviate soil compaction and promote healthy grass growth.

Overall, successful growth and maintenance of grass seed in North Carolina's climate require proper species selection, soil preparation, and regular maintenance practices.

What are the most important factors to consider when selecting grass seed for North Carolina?

When selecting grass seed for North Carolina, there are several important factors to consider. Firstly, the climate and soil type of the region should be taken into account. North Carolina has a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters. As such, grasses that are heat and drought tolerant, such as Bermuda grass, Zoysia grass and Centipede grass, are good options.

Secondly, the intended use of the grass should also be considered. For example, if the grass will be used for recreational purposes, such as sports fields or golf courses, a grass variety with high wear resistance, like Tall Fescue, is recommended.

Thirdly, the amount of sunlight and shade in the area where the grass will be planted should be considered. Some grass varieties, such as St. Augustinegrass, perform well in shade, while others, like Bermuda grass, require full sun.

Lastly, the maintenance requirements of the grass should be taken into account. Some grasses, such as Zoysia grass, require less frequent mowing and fertilization, while others, like Kentucky bluegrass, require more frequent maintenance.

Overall, selecting the right grass seed for North Carolina requires careful consideration of factors such as climate, soil type, intended use, sunlight and shade, and maintenance requirements.

What are the most popular grass seed brands used in North Carolina?

North Carolina is known for its varied climate, ranging from the coastal areas to the mountainous regions. Thus, the most popular grass seed brands used in North Carolina depend on the region and the type of grass that is best suited for the area. However, some of the most popular grass seed brands used in North Carolina include Pennington, Scotts, Jonathan Green, and Barenbrug.

Pennington is a popular brand in North Carolina, known for its high-quality grass seed varieties that are specifically designed for the state's climate. Scotts is another popular brand that offers a wide range of grass seed varieties that suit various regions in North Carolina. Jonathan Green and Barenbrug are also well-known brands that offer grass seed varieties that thrive in North Carolina's climate.

Overall, choosing the right grass seed brand for your lawn in North Carolina depends on various factors such as location, soil type, and personal preference. It is always best to consult with a local expert or a lawn care professional before selecting a grass seed brand to ensure that you choose the best option for your lawn.

What is the best time of year to plant grass seed in North Carolina?

The best time of year to plant grass seed in North Carolina depends on the type of grass that you want to grow. Generally, the best time to plant cool-season grasses such as Kentucky bluegrass, tall fescue, and ryegrass is during the fall, between late August and mid-October. This is because the weather conditions during this period are typically cooler with more consistent rainfall, which is ideal for seed germination. In contrast, warm-season grasses like Bermuda grass and zoysia grass should be planted in the late spring or early summer, between mid-April and mid-June when the soil has warmed up and the risk of frost has passed. It's important to choose the right grass species for your specific area and to prepare the soil properly before planting to ensure successful growth. Additionally, proper watering and maintenance practices are essential to ensure that your new lawn thrives.

What type of grass seed is best suited for North Carolina's climate?

When it comes to choosing the best grass seed for North Carolina's climate, there are a few factors to consider. North Carolina has a warm and humid climate with hot summers and mild winters. As such, warm-season grasses tend to thrive in this region. Bermuda grass, Zoysia grass, and Centipede grass are all popular choices for North Carolina lawns. Bermuda grass is a durable and drought-resistant grass that can handle heavy foot traffic. Zoysia grass is a slow-growing grass that requires less mowing and watering than other types of grass. Centipede grass is a low-maintenance grass that is easy to grow and maintain. Before choosing a grass seed, it's important to consider factors such as soil type, sun exposure, and water availability. Consulting with a local lawn care professional can also help ensure that you choose the best grass seed for your specific needs and location.

Which grass seed varieties are known for thriving in North Carolina's soil?

North Carolina's climate ranges from hot and humid summers to mild winters. Therefore, selecting the appropriate grass seed varieties can be challenging. However, some grass seed varieties are known to thrive in North Carolina's soil and weather conditions.

Firstly, Tall Fescue is one of the most popular grass seed varieties in North Carolina. It is a cool-season grass that grows well in the state's Piedmont and Mountain regions. Tall fescue is drought-tolerant and can withstand heavy foot traffic, making it ideal for lawns and sports fields.

Secondly, Bermuda grass is a warm-season grass that thrives in North Carolina's coastal plains and southern regions. It is heat and drought-tolerant and can withstand heavy wear and tear. Bermuda grass is ideal for golf courses, athletic fields, and residential lawns.

Thirdly, Zoysia grass is another warm-season grass that is becoming increasingly popular in North Carolina. It is drought-tolerant, low maintenance, and can withstand heavy foot traffic. Zoysia grass is ideal for residential lawns, golf courses, and commercial landscapes.

In conclusion, selecting the right grass seed variety for North Carolina's soil depends on a variety of factors. It is important to consider the climate, soil type, and intended use of the grass before making a final decision.