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If you throw grass seed on bare spots, some may sprout on the soil’s surface. However, the germination rate will diminish over time because the grass will not be rooted correctly. You may not get desired results if you toss grass seed on bare spots without proper lawn maintenance and cultivation.

Fast-track your seeds to success by pre-soaking them for 24 hours in a shallow container filled with tap water. The water will penetrate the husk and moisten the embryos inside. After one day of soaking, sow the seeds in the soil. Never soak the seeds for more than one day (unless the specific variety calls for longer), as prolonged soaking could cause them to rot.

Both zoysia grass and bermuda grass are somewhat similar to St. Augustine because they’re all warm-season grasses. Beyond that, most grass types have unique properties that set them apart. Zoysia grass costs twice the price of St. Augustine grass on average and it has thinner blades and a deeper green appearance. Bermuda grass, compared to St. Augustine, has much thinner blades, is softer to the touch, and has a higher tolerance for colder weather.

When stored under ideal conditions, grass seed lasts anywhere from 10 to 18 months from the testing date without any real decrease in the germination rate. You can still use the seeds after this timeframe, but the germination rates drop 10% to 20% each year. 

If you’re just embarking on an overseeding project, using seeds that have been in storage for a few years isn’t too big of a deal. However, if you’re planning on redoing your entire landscape, your best bet for a healthy, luscious lawn is to use new seeds.