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Best Grass Seeds For Shade (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for lush green grass in areas with limited sunlight, grass seeds for shade are a great solution. However, it’s important to consider a few factors before purchasing the seeds. Firstly, you need to assess the amount of sunlight the area receives. Grass species have different preferences when it comes to sunlight, and choosing the wrong seeds can result in a patchy, unsightly lawn. Secondly, consider the soil conditions. Some grass species thrive in acidic soils, while others prefer alkaline soil. Getting a soil test done can help you determine which seeds are suitable for your soil. Lastly, think about the level of maintenance required for each grass species. Some grasses are low-maintenance and require less water, while others need frequent care and attention.

Are you tired of the bald spots in your lawn? Do you want to have a lush green lawn without having to worry about sunlight restrictions? If yes, then grass seeds for shade are the answer to your problems. But choosing the right seeds requires careful consideration of several factors – sunlight, soil conditions, and maintenance requirements. Do you know which grass species are best suited for your lawn? What soil type do you have? How much maintenance are you willing to do? Read on to find out more about grass seeds for shade and how to get the perfect lawn you’ve always wanted.

10 Best Grass Seeds For Shade

# 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 dense and lush grass in areas with low sunlight or shade.
3
Ideal for growing grass in areas with limited sunlight or heavy 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
It is ideal for growing thick grass with high tolerance to sun and shade conditions in lawns or sports fields.
7
Ideal for repairing bare spots in areas with dense shade, promoting quick and easy grass growth.
8
The product is ideal for growing a cool season lawn that can thrive in both sun and shade.
9
Ideal for growing a lush and thick lawn in areas with both sun and shade conditions in the southern region.
10
The product is ideal for growing grass in areas with dense shade.
Ideal for quickly growing lush, green grass in both sunny and shady areas of your lawn.
Ideal for growing dense and lush grass in areas with low sunlight or shade.
Ideal for growing grass in areas with limited sunlight or heavy 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.
It is ideal for growing thick grass with high tolerance to sun and shade conditions in lawns or sports fields.
Ideal for repairing bare spots in areas with dense shade, promoting quick and easy grass growth.
The product is ideal for growing a cool season lawn that can thrive in both sun and shade.
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 grass in areas with dense shade.

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. 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

3. Pennington Smart Seed Dense Shade Grass Mix 7 Lb

Looking for a grass seed that can thrive in shady conditions? Look no further than this Tall Fescue and Fine Fescue mix. With just 2 to 6 hours of sunlight, this grass seed is the perfect solution for areas of your lawn that don't receive much sun. Not only that, but it's also disease and traffic-resistant, making it a smart choice for anyone who wants a strong, durable lawn.

This grass seed contains the perfect amount of fertilizer to help your lawn succeed. Plus, it can save you up to 30% more water year after year compared to ordinary grass seed. And with a guaranteed growth rate, you'll see results in as little as 8 to 16 days.

Each bag covers up to 1,750 sq. ft., making it a great option for anyone who wants to grow thick, green grass in a shaded area. So why wait? Order your bag of Tall Fescue and Fine Fescue grass seed today and start enjoying a beautiful lawn in no time!

Pros

  • Thrives in shady conditions with only 2 to 6 hours of sunlight
  • Disease and traffic-resistant for a strong, durable lawn
  • Contains the perfect amount of fertilizer to help your lawn succeed
  • Can save up to 30% more water year after year compared to ordinary grass seed
  • Guaranteed growth rate with results in as little as 8 to 16 days
  • Each bag covers up to 1,750 sq. ft.

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. 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

7. Pennington One Step Complete Dense Shade Bare Spot Grass Seed, 10 Pounds, White

The grass is always greener on your side with this all-in-one lawn repair solution. In just two weeks or less, bare spots will be a thing of the past. This pre-mixed package contains everything needed to grow lush, thick grass. A combination of premium Smart Seed grass seed, professional-grade fertilizer, and mulch means that the hard work is done for you. Simply open the package and apply. With a coverage area of up to 150 sq. ft., this product is perfect for repairing small to medium-sized areas of lawn. Seed germination occurs within 7-14 days, so you can enjoy a beautiful lawn in no time.

Say goodbye to unsightly, patchy grass and hello to a vibrant, healthy lawn. This easy-to-use solution is perfect for both seasoned gardeners and beginners. The pre-mixed formula ensures that the correct amount of seed, fertilizer, and mulch is used, taking the guesswork out of lawn care. With this product, you can have confidence in your ability to grow a beautiful lawn.

The combination of premium Smart Seed grass seed and professional-grade fertilizer ensures that your lawn will receive the nutrients it needs to thrive. Meanwhile, the mulch helps to retain moisture, giving your new grass the best possible chance to grow. With this product, you can trust that you are giving your lawn the very best care.

Pros

  • Repairs bare spots in two weeks or less
  • Pre-mixed and ready to use
  • Combination of premium Smart Seed grass seed, professional-grade fertilizer, and mulch
  • Covers up to 150 sq. ft.
  • 7-14 day seed germination

8. 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

9. 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

10. Jonathan Green Jog10600 40600 Dense Shade Grass Seed, 3 Lb, 3-Pound

This 3-pound bag of superior grass seed is perfect for those looking to enhance their lawn's appeal. With a coverage of up to 1,800 square feet, this grass seed is the ideal solution for those looking for a lush and green lawn. The seed is 100% pure and has been carefully selected to ensure that it results in a healthy and vibrant lawn. It is perfect for use in both sunny and shady areas.

The grass seed has been selected for its superior quality and is highly resistant to disease and drought. It grows quickly and is easy to maintain, requiring minimal watering and fertilization. This makes it the ideal choice for those who want a beautiful lawn without the hassle of constant upkeep. The seed is also suitable for use in a wide range of climates and soil types.

This grass seed is perfect for homeowners, landscapers, and anyone else who wants a beautiful lawn that is easy to maintain. It is a great investment that is sure to pay off in the long run. With its superior quality and ease of use, this grass seed is a must-have for anyone looking to improve their lawn's appearance.

Pros

  • Superior quality grass seed
  • Highly resistant to disease and drought
  • Grows quickly and is easy to maintain
  • Suitable for use in a wide range of climates and soil types

Best Grass Seeds For Shade FAQs

Can I mix different types of grass seeds for shade to create a more diverse lawn?

Yes, you can definitely mix different types of grass seeds for shade to create a more diverse lawn. Mixing different grass seeds can offer several benefits such as improved resistance to diseases, pests, and drought, better soil retention, and a more attractive lawn with varying shades and textures. However, it is important to choose grass species that are compatible with each other and have similar growing requirements such as soil type, moisture level, and sun exposure. For shade areas, cool-season grasses such as fine fescue, tall fescue, and Kentucky bluegrass are ideal as they can tolerate partial shade and grow well in cooler temperatures. It is also recommended to follow the recommended seeding rates for each species to ensure a balanced mix and avoid overcrowding or competition for resources. Overall, mixing different grass seeds for shade can lead to a healthier, more sustainable, and visually appealing lawn.

How do I prepare the soil for planting grass seeds in a shady area?

To prepare the soil for planting grass seeds in a shady area, there are several steps that you can take. Firstly, you need to clear the area of any debris, such as fallen leaves or branches, and remove any weeds or other unwanted vegetation. This can be done using a rake, hoe or other gardening tools.

Once the area is clear, you should test the soil to determine its pH level and nutrient content. This will help you determine whether any amendments are needed, such as adding lime to raise the pH or adding compost or other organic matter to improve soil fertility.

Next, you should loosen the soil by tilling or digging it to a depth of at least 6 inches. This will help to improve drainage and create a better growing environment for your grass seeds.

After preparing the soil, you can then sow your grass seeds, making sure to follow the instructions on the seed packet regarding seeding rate and depth. You should also water the area regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged, until the grass seeds germinate and establish themselves.

How often should I water grass seeds in shaded areas and how long will it take for them to germinate?

When it comes to watering grass seeds in shaded areas, it is important to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. This means watering the seeds lightly once or twice a day for the first few weeks until they begin to establish roots. After that, you can reduce the frequency of watering to once every two to three days.

However, it's important to note that the amount and frequency of watering may vary depending on factors such as the climate, soil type, and grass species. For example, if you live in a hot and dry climate, you may need to water more frequently to prevent the soil from drying out.

In terms of germination time, it can vary depending on the grass species and environmental conditions. Typically, grass seeds in shaded areas may take longer to germinate than those in sunny areas. It can take anywhere from 7 to 21 days for the seeds to germinate, but some species may take up to a month or longer. Be patient and continue to water the seeds regularly until they sprout and establish roots.

What are the best types of grass seeds for growing in shaded areas?

When it comes to growing grass in shaded areas, it is important to choose the right type of seed that can thrive in low-light conditions. The best types of grass seeds for shaded areas are those that have been specifically designed to grow in such conditions. These seeds typically have a higher tolerance for shade and can grow well even when there is limited sunlight.

Some of the best grass seed varieties for shaded areas include fine fescues, creeping red fescue, and chewings fescue. These types of grass are known for their ability to grow in low-light conditions and can also withstand moderate foot traffic.

Other factors to consider when choosing grass seeds for shaded areas include soil type, water availability, and climate conditions. It is also important to properly prepare the soil before planting the seeds and to provide adequate water and nutrients to help the grass grow.

In summary, when looking for the best types of grass seeds for shaded areas, it is important to choose varieties that have a higher tolerance for low-light conditions and can thrive in such environments. With proper preparation and care, these seeds can produce a lush and healthy lawn even in areas with limited sunlight.

What are the ideal growing conditions for grass seeds in shaded areas?

For grass seeds to thrive in shaded areas, they require different growing conditions compared to those in sunny areas. Shade-tolerant grass varieties, such as fine fescues, are best suited for such areas. The ideal growing conditions for grass seeds in shaded areas include proper soil preparation, adequate water supply, and sufficient air circulation.

To start with, the soil should be prepared by removing dead grass, debris, and other unwanted materials. Then, the soil should be loosened to allow for proper aeration and drainage. Adding organic matter, such as compost or leaf mold, can also improve the soil quality.

Next, adequate water supply is essential for the germination and growth of grass seeds in shaded areas. However, it is important to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to fungal diseases. Watering once or twice a week with enough water to moisten the soil to a depth of 6 inches is sufficient.

Lastly, sufficient air circulation is crucial for grass growth in shaded areas. This can be achieved by pruning trees and shrubs to allow for more light and air to penetrate the area. Regular mowing is also important to prevent the grass from becoming too tall and shading itself.

By providing these ideal growing conditions, grass seeds in shaded areas can grow healthy and lush, providing a beautiful green space.

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