Depending on the size of your yard and the type of seed being used, hydroseeding costs around $0.06 to $0.20 per square foot. While the national average cost is around $1,000, you can expect to spend anywhere between $493 and $2,900 for professional hydroseeding services.
Most homeowners prefer hydroseeding, as it’s a quicker, less labor-intensive method of planting new grass. It involves spraying a mixture of grass seed, water, fertilizer, and mulch across the area to be seeded. This method is often used for new lawns, erosion control, or to re-seed an existing lawn.
Average hydroseeding costs in 2024
| National average cost | $1,000 |
| Typical price range | $493 – $2,900 |
| Extreme low-end cost | $60 |
| Extreme high-end cost | $3,000 |
Hydroseeding is a process in which a slurry of seed, water, fertilizer, and mulch is sprayed onto a prepared seedbed. The hydroseeding slurry forms a thick mat that protects the seeds from erosion and provides nutrients for germination and early growth.
Most homeowners spend around $493 to $2,900, or around $1,000 on average, for professional hydroseeding. Depending on factors like location, yard slope, type of grass, and labor costs, your landscaping company may charge you anywhere from $0.06 to $0.20 per square foot. This rate covers the hydroseeding mixture and the labor involved.
Hydroseeding cost estimator by lawn size
Since most hydroseeding companies charge between $0.06 and $0.20 per square foot, your overall cost of hydroseeding will vary depending on your lawn size. So, if you have a small yard with 1,000 square feet, the total cost of your hydroseeding project can be as low as $60. But for large areas, it can cost as much as $8,700.
Keep in mind that these are just estimates, and prices will vary depending on the location, the type of seed being used, and other factors. But this will give you a good starting point for your budget.
| Yard size | Average overall cost |
| 1,000 sq. ft. | $60 – $200 |
| ⅛ acre (5,445 sq. ft.) | $300 – $1,000 |
| ¼ acre (10,890 sq. ft.) | $600 – $2,100 |
| ½ acre (21,780 sq. ft.) | $1,300 – $4,300 |
| ¾ acre (32,670 sq. ft.) | $1,900 – $6,500 |
| 1 acre (43,560 sq. ft.) | $2,600 – $8,700 |
Other factors that affect cost
Apart from the size of your lawn, other factors can affect hydroseeding prices, including the type of seed mix used, the rate and method of application, slope and soil condition, and watering restrictions.
Labor costs
The skill level of the lawn care experts doing the hydroseeding work can affect the overall cost. Depending on factors like your location and the method of application, labor costs may vary. But most landscaping companies usually charge between $30 to $40 per hour.
Type of mixture
Different types of hydroseeding mixtures have different costs. The most common mix is a combination of seed, water, fertilizer, and mulch, and you can get this kind of basic mix from your local garden center. If you don’t have a tight budget for this project, you can opt for an erosion control seed mix, which is one of the most expensive options.
Talk to your hydroseeding pro about what kind of mix you want to use on your lawn, and you may be able to cut back on your costs.
Type of grass
Another factor that can affect the total cost of hydroseeding is the type of grass you choose for your seed mix. If you live in a cold region, you might pick cold-tolerant grasses like Kentucky bluegrass or fine fescue. On the other hand, if your area often lacks water, you might prefer drought-resistant options like Zoysiagrass.
Rate and method of application
The rate of application will generally be determined by the size of the area that needs to be seeded, as well as the desired results. If you want a quicker germination process, you may need to pay a higher price for a higher rate of application. For example, a high-pressure hydroseeder will typically cost more to hire than a low-pressure one.
The most common ways of applying hydroseed mix are:
- Hand-held sprayers
- Hydraulic pumps
- Mechanical rotors
Hand-held sprayers are the least expensive option, while hydraulic pumps and mechanical rotors are more expensive to use. The application method that can be used on your property depends on the type of soil, the slope of the land, and the size of the area to be seeded.
Topography and soil condition
If the area to be seeded is large and has a lot of slopes or hills, it will be more expensive than a flat area. The same is true for soil conditions: if the soil is very sandy or has a lot of rocks, it will be more difficult to seed and will, therefore, be more expensive.
Hydroseeding costs on difficult landforms with poor soil conditions will generally be higher than hydroseeding on flat or level ground with good soil conditions. If you have compacted soil, it can be more difficult to break through the surface, which means more time, effort, and money needed to get the job done right.
Watering restrictions
If there’s a water scarcity issue in your area, taking care of your lawn may require extra steps like using water-saving additives or transporting water from other sources. However, these measures can result in added costs. Also, you may need to follow certain watering schedules, which can prolong the irrigation process and overall timeline of your hydroseeding project.
Planting the seeds for your new lawn is only the beginning. You’ll need services such as lawn mowing, fertilizing, and aeration to keep the grass healthy in the future. There are also alternatives to hydroseeding for you to consider. Let’s explore the cost of some of these related lawn care services.
Artificial grass installation
Instead of planting live grass seeds, some homeowners consider installing artificial grass because it eliminates the need for watering and is fairly low-maintenance. While it’s more expensive than hydroseeding, the upfront cost of artificial grass may be outweighed by long-term savings on water bills and lawn care expenses.
Soil testing and topsoil analysis
You should always test your soil before planting new grass (or anything else). On average, soil testing and topsoil analysis cost between $7 to $10 per sample. The test will show you which essential plant nutrients your soil lacks so you can choose the optimal fertilizer or additives to keep your grass healthy.
Lawn fertilization
The cost of professional lawn fertilization typically falls between $103 and $343, or $289 on average. Once your seeded grass matures, it’s best to fertilize it three to four times a year if you want to have a lush and healthy lawn.
Lawn dethatching
Dethatching is an essential but oft-forgotten part of lawn care. The cost of dethatching will vary depending on the size of your lawn and the severity of the thatch, but you should expect to pay between $145 and $247 for professional dethatching services.
Dethatching is stressful for grass, so you’ll probably want to wait a few seasons after hydroseeding to dethatch your lawn. Give the grass enough time to establish deep, strong roots so it doesn’t get ripped out along with the thatch.
Lawn aeration
Professional lawn aeration typically costs $143 on average, or around $82 to $251. It’s a good idea to have your lawn aerated before hydroseeding. Aeration loosens up your soil, which makes it easier for young grass to establish roots and access water and nutrients.
Lawn mowing
To keep your new grass looking fresh and clean, you’ll need to mow your lawn regularly. Lawn mowing services cost around $35 to $100. But if you want to mow the lawn yourself, you can buy a lawn mower instead.
A new lawn mower can cost anywhere from $123 to $2,547 on average, depending on the type of mower you want. A large riding mower is the most expensive option, while a simple reel mower is the cheapest.
Other lawn establishment methods
Establishing a new lawn may not always call for hydroseeding. For homeowners with the means and preference for immediate results, installing sod offers a quicker path to achieving a lush, green lawn compared to the gradual growth of hydroseeding. Conversely, traditional seeding can be the preferred choice for homeowners with budget constraints.
Sod installation
Sod costs more than hydroseeding but is more affordable than artificial grass. The benefit of sodding compared to seeding is that you don’t have to wait for the grass to grow. If you choose to have sod installed, you can get an instantly lush lawn.
Traditional seeding
If you want a more cost-effective approach, you can choose to do broadcast seeding yourself. Grass seed prices can vary based on the grass variety and brand. For homeowners who lack the time or inclination for DIY projects, hiring professional services for lawn seeding is a convenient option.
Leaf removal
The cost of leaf removal (having leaves picked up from your lawn, especially in the fall) varies depending on the size of the area to be cleared and the type of equipment used. Too many leaves in your lawn can suffocate your grass and invite pests or lawn diseases. Clearing leaves diligently is especially important for young, newly seeded grass.
Sprinkler system installation and repair
Another thing you should consider is the cost of a sprinkler system that may be necessary to supplement rainfall. With a good sprinkler system, you can ensure optimal watering for your recently hydroseeded lawn while crossing it off your list of responsibilities.
If you currently have a sprinkler system in place, periodic sprinkler repair services may be needed every few years to keep it working properly.
Weed removal
Weeds can compete with newly planted grass for nutrients, sunlight, and water, hindering its growth. So, if you want your lawn to be healthy, your lawn care routine should include timely and effective weed removal.
Pro cost vs. DIY cost
The cost of hydroseeding a lawn yourself depends on the size of the lawn and the type of hydroseeder you use. Total costs for equipment and materials should come out to around $398 to $725.
| DIY equipment/materials | Average cost |
| Grass seed | $35 – $64 |
| Paper mulch | $18 – $28 |
| Fertilizer | $20 – $30 |
| Garden rake or hoe | $22 |
| Gardening gloves | $12 |
| Wheelbarrow | $69 |
| Hydroseeding machine | $222 – $500 per day (rental) |
| Total DIY cost | $398 – $725 |
Depending on the size of your lawn, you might be able to save money by going the DIY route. However, your lawn might not turn out as good if you hydroseed it instead of a professional. Here are some drawbacks of DIY hydroseeding to consider before taking on this project:
- Hydroseeding requires specialized equipment that may be challenging to operate without a professional guide.
- It can be difficult to get the mixture to spread evenly over the ground, which can lead to patchy growth.
- If the mixture is not applied correctly, it can wash away easily, leading to wasted time and money.
- You run the risk of damaging the seedlings if the hydroseeding process is not carried out correctly.
Cost of hydroseeding by location
Hydroseeding is typically less expensive in urban areas. For example, if a project is located in a remote area, the cost of transportation may be higher. Projects that are located on hilly or mountainous terrain also may be more expensive due to the increased difficulty of working in those conditions. In addition, the cost of materials may be higher in some areas than others.
In areas with hot, dry climates prone to drought, hydroseeding services may be more expensive and require more frequent watering to keep the seedlings alive. Conversely, in cooler, wetter climates, hydroseeding may be more effective and require less frequent watering.
FAQ
What are the benefits of hydroseeding?
Hydroseeding, sometimes referred to as hydromulching, is a fast and efficient way to seed a lawn or garden. It’s less labor-intensive than traditional methods and produces a thick, green lawn. It’s also more affordable than sodding or conventional seeding.
Some of the advantages of hydroseeding over traditional seeding methods include:
- Faster and easier than traditional seed planting methods
- Provides better coverage and results in a more even distribution of seeds
- Less likely to result in seed loss due to wind or other factors
- More effective in areas with difficult growing conditions, such as steep slopes or areas with high amounts of clay in the soil
Will hydroseeding work on any terrain?
It can be done on most types of terrain but is not recommended for areas with a lot of rocks or steep slopes. If there are too many rocks or the slope is too steep, the hydroseeding mixture can wash away before it has a chance to take root.
What are the best practices for hydroseeding?
To get the best results when hydroseeding, remember to:
- Use the right mix of seed, mulch, and fertilizer
- Properly blend the mix before application
- Ensure the application rate is correct, and the hydroseeder is properly calibrated
Final Thoughts
Professional hydroseeding costs around $0.06 to $0.20 per square foot. If you have a small lawn, you might only need to spend around $60. Otherwise, a 1-acre lawn can cost as much as $8,700. But if you want to ensure your lawn is properly seeded, it’s better to hire a lawn care pro to perform the hydroseeding process.
Note: Lawn Love may get a referral fee for matching you with contractors in your area.
Main Image Credit: ex landscaper guy | Flickr | CC BY 2.0
