Grass seeds come from the seed heads produced by grass plants. These seed heads emerge above the grass blades, usually in spring, and contain the seeds that allow grass to propagate and spread. When mature, the seed heads release seeds that can grow into new grass plants
. Grass seed production is a specialized agricultural process. Grass plants are selectively bred for desirable traits, and the seeds are harvested from mature seed heads. Most lawn grasses, such as Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, and fescues, produce seed heads that contain viable seeds. However, seeds from hybrid grasses may be sterile and not germinate
. Grass seed is grown in various parts of the world. Major production areas include:
- The United States, especially Oregon's Willamette Valley, known for producing perennial ryegrass, tall fescue, and Kentucky bluegrass seeds.
- Europe, with significant production in countries like Germany, Denmark, Holland, France, and the UK (particularly southeastern England).
- Some grass species originate from other regions, such as bermudagrass from Africa and St. Augustinegrass from the West Indies and West Africa
Seeds are harvested by allowing the grass to grow without mowing until seed heads form, then cutting and collecting the seed heads. After harvesting, seeds are cleaned, processed, and packaged for sale
. In summary, grass seeds come from the seed heads of mature grass plants, grown and harvested on specialized farms primarily in the US and Europe, and then processed for distribution
