Grass Seed Not Germinating: Fertilizer Burn, Depth, and Cool Weather

A Western Canada homeowner seeded a filled depression two weeks ago. Cool, wet weather. Weeds germinate; grass doesn't. They used granular fertilizer. Forecast: sunny and dry.

Likely Culprits

1. Wrong fertilizer: Standard lawn fertilizer (high N) burns tender seedlings. Use starter fertilizer (high P, e.g., 18-24-12) or none at seeding.
2. Seed too deep: Raking in can bury seed 1.5–2 inches. Grass seed needs light—max ¼ inch cover.
3. Cool soil: Cool-season grasses need 50–65°F soil. Wet + cool = slow germination.

Action Plan

If starter fertilizer was used: Wait 2 more weeks. Water 2× daily (morning, late afternoon) with a timer. Sunny forecast helps.

If regular fertilizer was used: Rake lightly to disturb surface, re-seed on top (don't bury), dust with straw, water frequently. Rain + raking likely diluted the burn.

Best Practice for Reseeding

• Loosen top ¼ inch with rake.
• Broadcast seed.
• Light straw mulch (one bale/1000 sq ft).
• Water 2× daily until established.
• Fertilize after first mow (3+ inches tall).

Expert: Brandon Swisher | BMSwisher@aol.com