At Boston Seeds, people often ask us about ryegrass, wanting to learn more about its suitability for different areas, its germination speed, whether it's good for overseeding existing lawns, if it's suitable for high traffic areas, and much, much more. Here’s our round-up of the key questions about ryegrass seed.
What is Ryegrass Seed?
Ryegrass seed is a grass seed that is commonly used for lawns and sports pitches in the UK. It is a durable, hard-wearing grass that can recover quickly from wear and tear, and create beautiful looking lawns.
What is Ryegrass Seed Used For?
Perennial ryegrass seed is used to create lush, green lawns that can withstand high volumes of traffic, for public spaces, and for high quality sports pitches.
When is the Best Time to Plant Ryegrass Seed?
Perennial ryegrass should be sown from March to October when there is enough moisture and sunlight, but this sowing season can be extended in periods of favourable weather.
How Long Does it Take for Ryegrass Seed to Germinate?
In ideal conditions (a soil temperature of 7°C), perennial ryegrass seed will germinate in as little as five to seven days.
Is Ryegrass Good for Overseeding Existing Lawns?
Yes, ryegrass is generally considered the best choice for overseeding existing lawns in the UK due to its fast germination, ability to quickly establish itself, and tolerance to the UK's cooler climate, making it ideal for filling in bare patches and creating a uniform lawn.
Is Ryegrass Suitable for High Traffic Areas?
Yes, ryegrass is considered highly suitable for high traffic areas in the UK due to its hard-wearing nature, ability to withstand heavy foot traffic, and quick establishment, making it a top choice for family lawns, sports fields, and other areas with frequent use.
Can Ryegrass Tolerate Shade?
Perennial ryegrass is shade-tolerant, but doesn’t do well in very dry or very wet soil.
How often should I Mow Ryegrass?
In the UK, you should typically mow ryegrass once a week during the peak growing season (spring and summer), with the possibility of mowing every 10 - 14 days in early spring and autumn, and reducing mowing frequency during winter months when growth slows down.
How should I Store Ryegrass Seed?
Keep ryegrass seed in a cool, dry, and dark place.
What are the Best Companion Grasses to Mix with Ryegrass?
Mixes containing ryegrass and fescue create a balanced turf for most lawn scenarios, such as our BS Premier Lawn Grass Seed and BS Quality Hard Wearing Lawn Seed.
What are the Benefits of Ryegrass for Lawns?
Hard-wearing - can withstand heavy foot traffic and is suitable for around schools, parks, and homes.
Resilient - will bounce back and self-repair over time.
Fine-leaved – the latest cultivars of ryegrass utilised in our lawn seed create a fine-leaved sward, as used on professional sports pitches.
Green all year round - can tolerate winter and summer weather conditions.
Does Ryegrass have any Drawbacks?
Perennial ryegrass does not tolerate drought as well as other species as its shallow root system makes it unable to seek out deep soil moisture in times of prolonged drought.
Ryegrass Seed Mixes from Boston Seeds
At Boston Seeds, we offer an extensive and comprehensive range of grass seed to cater for your every requirement, and many of our seed mixes contain ryegrass seed for quality and durability. Our BS Premier Lawn Grass Seed, for example, contains two quality varieties of perennial ryegrass, with slender creeping red fescue to deliver a superior lawn that is quick to germinate and establish. For families with children and pets, our BS Child’s Play Lawn Seed comprises 50% durable amenity perennial ryegrass to cope with the rough and tumble of family life.
How to Order from Boston Seeds
Ordering from Boston seeds couldn’t be easier! With next day delivery available on hundreds of products, buy online or apply for a trade account today.
To contact our experienced sales team simply send us an email or call us on 01205 280069.
