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Best Grass Seed For Shade And Sun (2024 Updated)

If you're looking for a way to get your lawn looking lush and green, then you're probably in the market for grass seed. But with so many options out there, it can be tough to know which one to choose. If you're dealing with both shade and sun on your lawn, then you'll need to take a few extra factors into consideration before making your purchase.

First, think about the type of grass you currently have or want. If you're looking to patch up bare spots in your lawn, then you'll want to choose a seed that matches your existing grass as closely as possible. Additionally, consider the amount of foot traffic your lawn gets, as some varieties of grass can hold up better under heavy use than others. You'll also want to think about the amount of water and maintenance you're willing to put in, as certain types of grass require more care than others.

Are you tired of having a patchy lawn that never seems to thrive? Are you looking for a solution to getting your lawn looking its best? You won't want to miss our guide to choosing the best grass seed for your lawn. We'll help you navigate the ins and outs of the different types of grass seed available, and provide you with our top picks for the best seeds for both shade and sun. So why wait? Read on and get your lawn looking its greenest yet!

10 Best Grass Seed For Shade And Sun

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Ideal for quickly growing lush, green grass in both sunny and shady areas of your lawn.
2
Ideal for growing a lush and thick lawn in areas with both sun and shade conditions in the southern region.
3
The product is ideal for growing a cool season lawn that can thrive in both sun and shade.
4
The product is ideal for improving thin lawns by providing grass seed, fertilizer, and soil improver for both sunny and shaded areas.
5
It's ideal for patching and repairing bare spots in your lawn with a combination of grass seed, fertilizer, and mulch.
6
Ideal for growing grass in both sunny and shady areas, providing a lush and even lawn.
7
It is ideal for growing thick grass with high tolerance to sun and shade conditions in lawns or sports fields.
8
Ideal for growing dense and lush grass in areas with low sunlight or shade.
9
Ideal for growing grass in shaded areas with minimal sunlight requirements of only 3 hours per day.
10
Ideal for establishing a lush, green lawn with high drought and heat tolerance in both sunny and shaded areas.
Ideal for quickly growing lush, green grass in both sunny and shady areas of your lawn.
Ideal for growing a lush and thick lawn in areas with both sun and shade conditions in the southern region.
The product is ideal for growing a cool season lawn that can thrive in both sun and shade.
The product is ideal for improving thin lawns by providing grass seed, fertilizer, and soil improver for both sunny and shaded areas.
It's ideal for patching and repairing bare spots in your lawn with a combination of grass seed, fertilizer, and mulch.
Ideal for growing grass in both sunny and shady areas, providing a lush and even lawn.
It is ideal for growing thick grass with high tolerance to sun and shade conditions in lawns or sports fields.
Ideal for growing dense and lush grass in areas with low sunlight or shade.
Ideal for growing grass in shaded areas with minimal sunlight requirements of only 3 hours per day.
Ideal for establishing a lush, green lawn with high drought and heat tolerance in both sunny and shaded areas.

1. Rapid Green 16lbs: Sun & Shade Grass Mix

Achieve a lush lawn in just a few weeks with Scotts Turf Builder Rapid Grass Sun & Shade Mix. The combination of seed and fertilizer in this proprietary mix grows up to 2x faster than seed alone when applied at the new lawn rate and with proper care. This unique blend of sun and shade mix of seed and fertilizer produces a full green lawn that grows in just weeks. The grass will start to grow in as little as 12 days and will reach full maturity in 21 days. Scotts Turf Builder Rapid Grass Sun & Shade Mix is the perfect solution for problematic areas in your lawn that need extra attention as well as establishing new grass.

The best time to plant grass seed is during the fall or spring when temperatures are between 60°F and 80°F and the threat of frost has passed. To ensure optimal results, prepare the soil by lightly raking it to remove debris. Apply the grass seed using a Scotts spreader and water daily or as needed to keep the soil surface moist until the seedlings reach 2 to 3 inches tall. With one 16-lb. bag, you can seed up to 8,000 sq. ft. of lawn. Please note that this product may not be available in all states.

Pros

  • Produces a full green lawn that grows in just weeks
  • Grows up to 2x faster than seed alone when applied at the new lawn rate and with proper care
  • Ideal for problematic areas in your lawn as well as establishing new grass
  • One 16-lb. bag can seed up to 8,000 sq. ft. of lawn

Cons

  • – May not be available in all states

2. Pennington Smart Seed Sun And Shade Tall Fescue Grass Seed Mix For Southern Lawns 20 Lb

Maintain a lush and healthy lawn all year round with this Grass Seed and Fertilizer Mix. The ideal choice for Southern Tall Fescue lawns that receive a moderate amount of shade and sun exposure. This premium mix contains the perfect blend of grass seed and fertilizer to help your lawn thrive and succeed.

With its advanced formula, this grass seed and fertilizer mix is designed to withstand hot, humid, and harsh weather conditions. It requires just 4 to 6 hours of sunlight and can help you save up to 30% more water every year compared to ordinary grass seed. You can trust this mix to grow and see results in as little as 8 to 21 days.

This bag covers up to 5,000 sq. ft, making it perfect for larger lawns. Whether you're a professional landscaper or a homeowner looking to improve the look of your lawn, this grass seed and fertilizer mix is an excellent choice.

Take the first step towards a healthy and beautiful lawn today with this Grass Seed and Fertilizer Mix for Southern Tall Fescue lawns.

Pros

  • Ideal for Southern Tall Fescue lawns with moderate shade and sun exposure
  • Contains just the right amount of fertilizer to help your lawn thrive
  • Can save up to 30% more water compared to ordinary grass seed
  • Survives in hot, humid, and harsh weather conditions
  • Guaranteed to grow with visible results in as little as 8 to 21 days
  • Covers up to 5,000 sq. ft, perfect for larger lawns

3. Jonathan Green (12006) Black Beauty Sun & Shade Grass Seed – Cool Season Lawn Seed (25 Lb)

Looking for a grass seed mix that can thrive in full sun to partial shade? Look no further than the Sun & Shade Grass Seed Mix! This versatile mixture is a great choice for almost any lawn, as it is designed to improve the appearance of your grass and provide a dark green lawn. Whether you're looking to fill in bare spots quickly or thicken your entire lawn, this lawn seed mixture is the perfect choice.

Containing four families of cool-season turfgrasses, including turf-type tall fescue, Kentucky bluegrass, perennial rye, and fine fescues, this grass seed mix produces healthy, dense, and attractive turf with a dark-green color. When applied correctly, this 25 lb bag can seed up to 9,375 sq. ft. for new lawns or up to 18,750 sq. ft. for overseeding, providing complete coverage for your lawn.

With a germination time of 7-14 days, this grass seed mix is best applied mid-August to mid-October or mid-March through mid-May. So, if you're looking for a grass seed mix that can help improve the appearance of your lawn and provide complete coverage for your grass, look no further than the Sun & Shade Grass Seed Mix!

Pros

  • Versatile mixture that can thrive in full sun to partial shade
  • Improves the appearance of your grass
  • Provides a dark green lawn
  • Contains four families of cool-season turfgrasses
  • Can seed up to 9,375 sq. ft. for new lawns or up to 18,750 sq. ft. for overseeding
  • Germination time of 7-14 days

4. Scotts Turf Builder Thick'r Lawn Grass Seed, Fertilizer And Soil Improver For Sun & Shade, 40 Lbs.

Achieve a lush, thick lawn with just one easy application using this 3-in-1 solution for thin lawns. This product is a combination of seed, fertilizer and soil improver that works together to improve the condition of your lawn. It is perfect for filling gaps in your current lawn, promoting thicker and greener turf, and enhancing root development.

With this solution, you can get up to a 50% thicker lawn in no time. Simply use a spreader to apply the solution and follow proper care instructions. Keep in mind that results may vary depending on the current condition of your lawn. However, with its effective formula, you can expect to see significant improvements in no time.

Pros

  • Easy to use 3-in-1 solution for thin lawns
  • Combination of seed, fertilizer and soil improver promotes thicker and greener turf
  • Enhances root development for a healthier lawn
  • Can achieve up to a 50% thicker lawn with just one application

Cons

  • – Results may vary depending on the current condition of the lawn

5. Sun & Shade Seed & Feed Repair Kit

Scotts EZ Seed Patch & Repair Sun and Shade is a game-changing product designed to revive damaged lawns and fill in bare spots. This all-in-one solution combines high-performance grass seed, expanding mulch, controlled-release fertilizer, tackifier, and protectant in a single package. Scotts EZ Seed Patch & Repair Sun and Shade is a perfect solution for growing grass in challenging conditions like full sun, dense shade, high-traffic areas, and slopes. It can cover up to 445 sq. ft. with just three easy steps.

Scotts EZ Seed Patch & Repair Sun and Shade is an excellent option to repair lawn damage and revive your lawn's beauty. This product is formulated with a special blend of seeds that thrive in different light conditions. The expanding mulch helps keep the seed moist, reducing the need for frequent watering. The controlled-release fertilizer delivers essential nutrients to the seeds, promoting healthy growth. The tackifier helps keep the seed in place even during heavy rainfalls, reducing seed washouts. The protectant helps keep the seedlings safe from diseases and pests.

Scotts EZ Seed Patch & Repair Sun and Shade is easy to use. Simply prepare the area by removing debris, loosening the soil, and removing any dead grass or weeds. Then, spread the EZ Seed Patch & Repair Sun and Shade mix evenly over the area. Finally, water the area daily until the grass reaches 3 inches. Scotts EZ Seed Patch & Repair Sun and Shade can be planted in the spring or fall when the daily average soil temperature is between 55°F and 70°F or air temperatures between 60°F and 80°F. With this product, you can enjoy a lush and healthy lawn in no time.

Pros

  • Easy to use, with only three steps required for application
  • Designed to grow grass in challenging conditions, including full sun, dense shade, high traffic areas, and slopes
  • Contains a combination of grass seed, fertilizer, mulch, tackifier, and protectant in one package
  • Covers up to 445 sq. ft.
  • Promotes healthy growth and seedling safety

Cons

  • – May require frequent watering during hot and dry weather to prevent seedlings from drying out

6. Jonathan Green 12006 Black Beauty Sun & Shade Grass Seed Mixture, 25 Lb

Achieve a lush and healthy lawn with this 25-pound bag of turfgrass seed. With a coverage of 18750 square feet, this seed is perfect for large areas. It is endophyte enhanced, which makes it more insect resistant and durable. The elite turfgrasses have a wide adaptability to different climates and soil types, ensuring that the seed will grow in most environments. The uniform growth of the grass creates a beautiful and seamless blend in existing lawns, making it perfect for renovations or new installations.

The blend of elite turfgrasses in this seed provides a beautiful and healthy lawn that is resistant to insects and diseases. With its wide adaptability, this seed can be used in different regions and soil types, making it a versatile choice for any lawn project. The uniform growth of the grass creates a seamless blend with existing lawns, improving the overall appearance of the property. Endophyte enhancement ensures that the grass is more resistant to insects and diseases, reducing the need for pesticides and other harmful chemicals.

Overall, this 25-pound bag of turfgrass seed is an excellent choice for anyone looking to improve their lawn. Its wide adaptability, endophyte enhancement, and uniform growth make it a versatile and easy-to-use product that will provide a beautiful and healthy lawn for years to come.

Pros

  • Wide adaptability to different climates and soil types
  • Endophyte enhancement provides improved insect resistance
  • Uniform growth creates a seamless blend in existing lawns
  • Covers a large area of 18750 square feet

7. Greenview Fairway Formula Grass Seed Turf Type Tall Fescue Sun & Shade Blend – 20 Lbs.

Achieving a lush and healthy lawn can be challenging, especially when it is exposed to both sun and shade. Fortunately, GreenView A-LIST Blend Grass Seed is here to provide a solution. This blend is specifically designed to thrive in extreme environments and it is 99.9% weed-free, thanks to the proprietary mix of top-rated, premium quality seeds.

The A-LIST blend is resistant to heat, drought, insects, diseases, and heavy traffic from children and pets. Moreover, the uncoated seeds ensure maximum seed coverage. This blend is ideal for bare spots, seeding a new lawn, or for overseeding an existing lawn. It can cover up to 2,500 sq. ft. for new lawns and 5,000 sq. ft. for existing lawns.

For better results, it is recommended to pair the GreenView A-LIST Blend Grass Seed with Fairway Formula Seeding Success, a one-step starter fertilizer and seeding mulch that guarantees successful seed germination. When used as directed, you can expect fast germination in just 7-14 days. Professional Rights is guaranteed and there is a GreenView Yard Wide Guarantee. If you are not satisfied with the product, your money will be refunded.

Pros

  • Designed to thrive in extreme environments
  • 99.9% weed-free
  • Resistant to heat, drought, insects, diseases, and heavy traffic
  • Uncoated seeds ensure maximum seed coverage
  • Ideal for bare spots, seeding a new lawn, or for overseeding an existing lawn
  • Fast germination in just 7-14 days when used with Fairway Formula Seeding Success
  • Professional Rights is guaranteed
  • GreenView Yard Wide Guarantee

8. Jonathan Green (10610) Black Beauty Dense Shade Grass Seed – Cool Season Lawn Seed (25 Lb)

Transform your shady lawn with this shade-tolerant grass seed mix. Specifically designed for areas with limited sunlight, this mix is perfect for lawns with big trees, large shrubs, or areas shaded by houses or other permanent structures. The black beauty dense shade mix produces healthy, dense, and attractive turf with a dark-green color that will enhance the beauty of your lawn.

This mix contains four families of cool-season turfgrasses, including turf-type tall fescue, Kentucky bluegrass, perennial rye, and fine fescues. This makes it versatile for shady to partial sun lawns. With a germination time of 14 – 21 days, these turfgrass varieties also possess beneficial endophytes. This ensures quick establishment and growth of your lawn.

This 25 lb bag of grass seed will cover up to 7,500 sq. ft. for new lawns and up to 15,000 sq. ft. for overseeding. The best time to apply is mid-August to mid-October or mid-March through mid-May. With its complete coverage and quick establishment, you can have a beautiful, lush lawn in no time!

Pros

  • Ideal for areas with limited sunlight
  • Produces healthy, dense, and attractive turf with a dark-green color
  • Versatile for shady to partial sun lawns
  • Quick establishment and growth with beneficial endophytes
  • Covers up to 7,500 sq. ft. for new lawns and up to 15,000 sq. ft. for overseeding

9. Scotts Turf Builder Grass Seed Dense Shade Mix, Grows With As Little As 3 Hours Of Sunlight, 7 Lbs.

The Scotts Turf Builder Dense Shade Mix Grass Seed is a premium quality grass seed designed to thrive in both sun and shade conditions with as little as 3 hours of sunlight. This grass seed comes with a specialized blend of shade-tolerant, self-repairing, and medium-bladed texture grass varieties. These grass varieties are perfect for seeding around or under dense trees where sunlight is minimal.

This grass seed also features an exclusive 4 in 1 WaterSmart PLUS Coating. This coating is designed to absorb more water, feed the seedlings with essential nutrients, and protect them from diseases. As a result, you can expect to have a beautiful and lush green lawn in no time.

The Scotts Turf Builder Dense Shade Mix Grass Seed can cover up to 1,750 sq. ft. which makes it an excellent choice for both small and large lawns. However, please note that this product is not available in LA.

Pros

  • Specialized blend of shade-tolerant, self-repairing, and medium-bladed texture grass varieties.
  • Grows with as little as 3 hours of sunlight.
  • Exclusive 4 in 1 WaterSmart PLUS Coating that absorbs more water, feeds with essential nutrients, and protects seedlings from disease.
  • Can cover up to 1,750 sq. ft.

Cons

  • – Not available in LA.

10. Pennington Smart Seed Sun And Shade Grass Mix 7 Lb

Achieve a lush and healthy lawn with this premium grass seed mixture consisting of Tall Fescue, Perennial Ryegrass, Kentucky Bluegrass, and Fine Fescue. This blend is specifically formulated to thrive in areas that receive sun in some parts and moderate shade in others. The seed is coated with just the right amount of fertilizer to give your lawn the nutrients it needs to succeed.

This grass seed is perfect for areas that receive 4 to 6 hours of sunlight, and it boasts excellent disease resistance and very good drought tolerance. Additionally, it can help you save up to 30% more water year after year compared to ordinary grass seed. You can expect to see results in as little as 8 to 21 days, and this bag can cover up to 2,330 sq. ft.

Transform your lawn into a beautiful and healthy oasis with this premium grass seed mixture.

Pros

  • Formulated with a mix of Tall Fescue, Perennial Ryegrass, Kentucky Bluegrass, and Fine Fescue to thrive in areas with sun and moderate shade
  • Coated with just the right amount of fertilizer to provide your lawn with essential nutrients
  • Excellent disease resistance and very good drought tolerance
  • Can help you save up to 30% more water year after year compared to ordinary grass seed
  • Guaranteed to grow and see results in as little as 8 to 21 days
  • Covers up to 2,330 sq. ft.

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for areas with extreme shade or full sun

Best Grass Seed For Shade And Sun FAQs

Are there any specific maintenance requirements for grass seed that is designed for both sun and shade?

Yes, there are specific maintenance requirements for grass seed that is designed for both sun and shade. While these types of grass seeds are versatile and can adapt to various growing conditions, they still require proper care to ensure optimal growth and longevity.

Firstly, it is important to ensure that the soil is properly prepared before planting the grass seed. This involves removing any debris or weeds, tilling the soil, and adding any necessary nutrients or soil amendments.

Secondly, regular watering is crucial for the growth of grass seed. Depending on the climate and weather conditions, the grass may require daily watering or less frequent watering. It is important to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to the development of fungus and other plant diseases.

Thirdly, regular mowing is necessary to keep the grass at a healthy length and prevent weeds from taking over. It is recommended to mow the grass when it reaches a length of 3-4 inches, and to never remove more than one-third of the grass blade at a time.

Lastly, fertilization is important to provide the grass with the necessary nutrients for growth. It is important to choose a fertilizer that is appropriate for the specific type of grass and to follow the manufacturer's instructions for application.

By following these maintenance requirements, grass seed that is designed for both sun and shade can thrive and provide a lush, green lawn.

Can you mix different types of grass seed for shade and sun to create a more resilient lawn?

Yes, it is possible to mix different types of grass seed for shade and sun to create a more resilient lawn. The reason for this is that different types of grass have varying characteristics that make them suitable for different growing conditions. For instance, some grasses like fescue are well adapted to shady areas, while others like Bermuda grass thrive in sunny areas.

By mixing different grass seed types, you create a lawn that is better able to withstand changing weather conditions and environmental stressors. However, it is important to note that not all grass types are compatible with each other. Therefore, it is essential to choose grass seed types that are suitable for your specific location and growing conditions.

Additionally, it is crucial to follow proper planting and maintenance practices to ensure that your mixed grass lawn thrives. This includes watering, fertilizing, and mowing at the appropriate times and frequencies. Overall, mixing different types of grass seed for shade and sun is an effective strategy for creating a resilient lawn that can withstand different environmental conditions.

How do you choose the right grass seed for a lawn with varying sun exposure?

Choosing the right grass seed for a lawn with varying sun exposure requires careful consideration of several factors. First, you need to determine the amount of sun exposure your lawn receives. Lawns that receive full sun require a different type of grass seed compared to those that receive partial or full shade. Next, you need to consider the soil type and the drainage of your lawn. Certain grass seeds thrive in well-drained soils, while others can tolerate wet soils.

Another important factor to consider is the climate in your area. Certain grass seeds are better suited for warm climates, while others can tolerate cold temperatures. You can consult with a local nursery or gardening expert to determine the best grass seed for your specific area.

Once you have determined your lawn's sun exposure, soil type, drainage, and climate requirements, you can select the appropriate grass seed that will thrive in your lawn. It is also important to follow the instructions on the seed packaging carefully, as this will ensure that you achieve the best results. By taking these factors into consideration, you can choose the right grass seed for your lawn and ensure that it grows healthy and green.

How long does it typically take for grass seed for shade and sun to germinate and grow into a full lawn?

The germination and growth of grass seed for shade and sun can vary depending on different factors. Typically, it takes around 7-21 days for grass seed to germinate, but it could take longer in some cases. Factors that can affect germination and growth include soil quality, temperature, moisture, and sunlight exposure.

For optimal conditions, it is recommended to plant grass seed during the growing season, which is typically in the spring or fall. During these seasons, the soil is warmer, and there is more moisture in the air. This will help the grass seed to germinate faster and grow into a full lawn more quickly.

Once the grass seed has germinated, it will continue to grow at a rate of about 2-6 inches per month, depending on the type of grass and environmental conditions. With proper care and maintenance, the grass will reach its full potential and provide a beautiful and healthy lawn for years to come.

What are the best types of grass seed for areas that receive both sun and shade?

When it comes to choosing grass seed for areas that receive both sun and shade, it's important to consider a few factors. Firstly, you want to choose a type of grass that is suitable for your climate and soil type. Some popular options for areas that receive both sun and shade include Kentucky bluegrass, fine fescue, and perennial ryegrass.

Kentucky bluegrass is a high-quality grass that can tolerate both sun and shade, making it a good option for areas with mixed lighting conditions. Fine fescue is a shade-loving grass that also performs well in areas with partial sun. It's also drought-tolerant and requires less maintenance than other grass types. Perennial ryegrass is another good option for areas with mixed lighting conditions. It's a fast-growing grass that can handle both sun and shade and has a fine texture.

When choosing your grass seed, make sure to read the label to ensure that it's suitable for your specific needs. You may also want to consider a mix of grass seed types to ensure optimal coverage and performance. Ultimately, the best type of grass seed for areas that receive both sun and shade will depend on your specific location and needs.

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