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FAQ


Will this mix/seed grow in my zone?

USDA plant hardiness zones are not especially helpful when talking about grasses and lawns. With the exception of our Pacific Northwest native seed mixes, all of our eco-lawn mixes and most of the products on this site will be successful everywhere in the US and Canada where cool season grasses grow. 

When is the best time to plant?

Both spring and fall are great for planting. Lawns benefit from a fall planting because root systems continue to grow through the winter, resulting in a fully established turf by the following spring. When planting in fall, seed should be on the ground well in advance of the first hard frost in your area (28 degrees for more than one hour); for traditional turf grass lawns, 4 to 6 weeks is adequate. Ecology lawns take longer to establish and should be seeded about 6 to 8 weeks before the first expected hard frost. In much of California, the best time to seed is between November and January. Spring planting begins when soil (not air) temperatures have returned to 50 degrees or warmer. Spring rains create favorable conditions for planting by helping to keep seeds continually moist during germination and early establishment. Summer is an acceptable time to plant, just know you may need more water to establish.

Where can I find planting instructions?

Planting instructions for both eco-lawn and conventional lawn, plus additional lawn maintenance tips are found here: https://ptlawnseed.com/pages/lawn-tips

How should I water to establish a seed mix?

Water lightly and frequently to prevent top of soil from drying out as the seeds germinate. Seeds need to be kept constantly moist; do not let the seeds dry out. The typical germination period is 2-3 weeks. When grass seedlings are approximately 2 inches tall, reduce the frequency of waterings to 2 or 3 times weekly, but more deeply. The increase in water per application is to achieve greater soaking depths for development of healthy root systems. Reduce frequency of waterings over time as plants become established. If relying on natural rainfall for your planting, then plant in early spring or fall for greatest chance of success. If inadequate rainfall is received following seed germination, irrigation may be needed to ensure seedling survival. *If planted in spring, prevent the lawn from going dormant in the first summer season, which may require a deep watering once or twice a week.

How can I tell if my lawn needs water?

The goal of a good watering program should be to apply water as infrequently as possible, while making sure that the root zone gets consistent moisture. The lawn will give you visual clues that it's time for a drink. Leaf blades curl or fold in half lengthwise. Footprints remain visible long after you walk across the lawn. Grass darkens to bluish gray rather than green before turning to brown (yellow lawns likely have different problems and may even indicate too much water). Keep in mind that not all areas of your lawn will require the same amount of water; areas of sun will require more water than shady areas. 

How should I water to keep a healthy lawn?

Water an established lawn as infrequently as possible, but deeply when you do. Water a conventional lawn no more than twice a week (even less for an eco-lawn). Develop a good root system by making sure moisture penetrates to the bottom of the root zone--at least 4 inches below the surface. Regular core-aerating and de-thatching can help lawns accept a deep water. Water between midnight and early morning in the heat of summer; early evening watering and overwatering could lead to fungal diseases. 

What is an ecology lawn?

An ecology lawn (aka eco-lawn, ecolawn) is one that includes species other than just grasses such as clovers, flowers and other forbs. Clovers naturally fix nitrogen in the soil, feeding themselves and their companions so that ongoing fertilizer applications are not necessary. Ecology lawns are also more drought-tolerant and disease-resistant than conventional, grass-only lawns. Once established, ecology lawns stay green even during long, dry periods. Pro Time Lawn Seed specializes in these low-input, low-maintenance lawn mix alternatives for residential, commercial and public greenspaces. Visit "Ecology & Alternative Lawns" under Categories.

Do your lawns attract bees?

Some of our ecology and alternative lawns do attract pollinators. This contribution to the health of bees, butterflies, birds and other animals is one of many attributes that make these mixes so popular. If flowering clovers bother you at certain times of year, then we suggest mowing shorter than usual to clip off the flower blooms. 

How much seed do I need?

Every mix is different. Application rates vary widely from seed mix to seed mix; all PT mix descriptions include our recommended application rate range. Note that ecology lawns require less seed per square foot than conventional turf grass lawns; heavier than recommended applications may impede successful establishment of clovers, flowers and other forbs. If hydroseeding, double the recommended application rate on all mixes.

Will your seed mixes work in shade?

We consider an area full sun when it gets four or more hours of sunshine throughout the day. We do have seed mixes suitable for sites with less than four hours of sun, so please see our drop down menu for Shop By - Shade Tolerance for a complete list. For those heavily shaded areas where grasses are thin, consider adding PT 313 Super Shade Supplement. Note that all of our products grow well in the sun.

Can I overseed into sod?

Yes and no. Direct seed-to-soil contact is needed for successful germination and establishment. Mature sod plantings can be raked hard or de-thatched to expose soil and create bare spots for overseeding. Newly laid sod is typically thick and dense, leaving no room for seeds to reach the soil. Wait for sod to take root before attempting a hard raking or de-thatching prior to overseeding.

What are your shipping and packaging policies?

To use the least amount of packaging, multiple orders of the same seed mix will be consolidated into one bag unless otherwise requested; just write us a note in 'Special Instructions' at checkout!

You will receive an automated email with tracking information once we ship.

For damaged, lost or misdirected packages, please contact your chosen carrier for further information or to make a claim. Since you selected and purchased from your preferred carrier, you are entitled to make a claim with them and may receive insurance compensation for loss or damage; we are not able to make a claim on your behalf.

Do you ship internationally?

No, unfortunately we cannot.

Do you offer trade discounts?

Yes, we offer trade discounts on most products. Please click here for details.

Are any of your products genetically modified?

No. All of our products are non-GMO.

Do any of your products contain neonicotinoids?

No. All of our products are neonicotinoid-free.

What are other customers saying about Pro Time Lawn Seed?

"GREAT place with a staff that has somehow found a balance regarding professionalism and enthusiasm all for the love of grass! Everyone seems happy and very welcoming when asked to share their knowledge of what they envision of your lawn.The business plan is working. This place kicks *ss!" - Holly, Portland, Oregon via Yelp

“We love our Dog Park, not only with the lavender, but it feels so good on our feet when we practice Qigong and Tai-chi. We have classes twice a week on the front lawn, our toes deep in clover.” - Dan & Carol, Summerhouse Lavender Farm, Fennville, Michigan

“Fleur’s English Daisies are coming out in the Nature Zone. Thanks so much! They are beautiful and the kids love to pick them.” - Monica, Head Start, Tillamook, Oregon

“We installed Fleur de Lawn for a client last spring. Here is part of a recent email from them: We’ve had a lot of interest in our lawn. Everyone wanted to know more about it… Love the daisies and other flowers. My water bill for August was half what it was last year, yea!” - Bill, Tacoma, Washington

“I planted Water Smarter in the front yard and tall fescue sod in the back. The front yard looks great! The back yard is spotty and brown." - Laurette, Lake Oswego, Oregon

“I planted Dog Park for a client with two female dogs a year ago. They haven’t seen one spot. It’s so great!” - Lauren, Lilyvilla Gardens, Portland, Oregon

“We planted your 705 no mow mix on our hillside, along with some trees and shrubs. Besides looking very lush, it works really well keeping the weeds down. I love how the yarrow drapes over the rock wall this time of year too!” - Denise, Rochester, Minnesota

“As we start our third year with the Rough & Ready lawn, I can’t tell you how happy we are! The overall lawn looks great all seasons, clover is uniform, never have to handle any weeds, watering and mowing needs way down. Thank you!” - Andrea, Bainbridge Design, Portland, Oregon

“Love your product! Planted a Fleur de Lawn and planting a second.” - Kathleen, Santa Barbara, California

“I’ve had Herb de Lawn (Fragrant Herbal) in my back yard for five years. It gets full sun and foot traffic and has held up winter after winter. Best lawn seed I’ve ever found.” - Vida, Minneapolis, Minnesota

“My neighbor put in sod and spent $600; I planted PT 301 and spent $60. One month later, they look the same!” - Caitlin, Portland, Oregon

“It [Fleur de Lawn] turned out into a lovely lawn which fends for itself!” - Laurence, British Columbia, Canada

"They offer the best lawn seed available, which includes a great selection of unique and ecological mixes. I'm a landscaper and their seed is the only kind I use. The staff and owners are very friendly and knowledgeable, as well." - Max, Portland, Oregon

"I purchased your PT 767 Dog Park mix … to overseed my established lawn. Since that time I cannot tell you how many times I have had people ask me how I can have a lawn without all the dead areas that always come with owning multiple dogs, especially female dogs…. The micro-micro clover has filled in slowly but surely and does an amazing job of keeping the lawn green in the heat and it holds up to the wear and tear of multiple active dogs and plenty of foot traffic with no problems at all…. I just wanted to let you know how much I appreciate your product and that I can't recommend it enough to people looking for a durable and attractive lawn." - Dale, Kennewick, Washington