Grass seed. Is there really a difference between brands?

[WoodChuckDad]

I am building some fields. A process that will continue for years. Spreading many toms of lime and manure and putting in grass seed. I am buying several types but most of it is Kentucky 31 tall fescue. What I am wondering is if there really is a big difference between Pennington, rebels, and some of the companies stuff sold at tractor supply and southern states

 

[boomer1025]

With the manure you put on I think you all ready seeded it

 

[WoodChuckDad]

Boomer, that would suit me fine because forage grass is expensive stuff. It is well composted cow manure from a local dairy farm. I am hoping that it sweetens up the soil.

 

[jaydee325]

You might try a feed store in your area. A while back, I inquired at a local feed store/outlet and they were significantly less money for bulk seed than any of the local big box retail estabilshments.

They provided advice also!

 

[oosik]

I've used different brands of grass seed. The thing I've found - old seed can have a low germination rate. Also - seed that has different types of wild grasses, all mixed together, will show better overall germination.

There are two grass seed companies locally. I obtain seed from them. Local company providing local seed.

 

[jeff9366]

There are two grass seed companies locally. I obtain seed from them. Local company providing local seed.

I agree. I buy seed from Hancock Seed Company in Dade City, Florida, forty miles from my home. Hancock is specific about which seed varieties they grow themselves around Dade City, which they buy from other parts of Florida, and which come from out of state.

I do not know if germination is better but one year "take" of young grass to my land is improved.

 

[oosik]

"I do not know if germination is better but one year "take" of young grass to my land is". That's exactly what I meant to say Jeff. I've tried Kentucky Blue grass on one small patch. It sure must do better in Kentucky.

 

[Streetcar]

I am building some fields. A process that will continue for years. Spreading many toms of lime and manure and putting in grass seed. I am buying several types but most of it is Kentucky 31 tall fescue. What I am wondering is if there really is a big difference between Pennington, rebels, and some of the companies stuff sold at tractor supply and southern states

As long as variety is the same ,brand does not matter. I bought at farm supply for best price

 

[RickB]

I look at the germination test data and make sure the seed was tested and bagged in the current calendar year.

 

[Oldoak]

The quality of seed is more important than where you purchase it or where it was grown. For the past several years I have had very good germination rates with the seed I have purchased. All of which came from Hancock Seed Co., Dade City, Florida. My property is in N.E. Pennsylvania.

The only seed I purchase locally is rye and oats when used as a cover crop or is going to be plowed under as green manure crop.

The question you want to ask yourself: Is it suited for my climate and the length of my growing season?