Mushroom grass seed is sold by online seed retailers, specialty turf companies, and some garden centers that stock ornamental grasses
Mushroom grass (also called mondo grass or dwarf mondo grass, depending on the variety) is not a true grass but a groundcover plant in the lily family. You will find seed or starter plants at online retailers like Burpee, Johnny's Selected Seeds, and Territorial Seed Company, as well as through specialty nurseries that focus on ornamental plants. Some regional garden centers carry it, especially those in areas where it grows well outdoors year-round.
The easiest route is usually ordering online, because mushroom grass seed is not stocked by every local garden center. Prices typically range from $4 to $12 per packet, depending on the seed company and packet size. Shipping takes 5 to 10 business days from most retailers, so plan ahead if you need the seed by a specific date.
If you prefer to see the plant before buying, check with local nurseries that specialize in groundcovers or shade plants. Many will order seed or starter plants for you if they do not have them in stock. Starter plants (small plugs or divisions) are often easier to establish than seed, though they cost more per square foot.
Key Takeaways
- Mushroom grass seed is sold online by major seed companies like Burpee and Johnny's Selected Seeds, and by specialty turf and ornamental plant retailers.
- Seed packets cost between $4 and $12 and arrive within 5 to 10 business days of ordering.
- Mushroom grass grows slowly from seed and may take 8 to 12 weeks to reach groundcover density, so many gardeners buy starter plants instead.
- The plant thrives in partial shade to full shade and prefers moist, well-draining soil with organic matter mixed in.
- Seed should be started indoors 6 to 8 weeks before your last spring frost, or direct-sown outdoors after frost danger has passed.
Starting mushroom grass seed indoors
Indoor seed starting gives you a head start and stronger plants by the time you move them outdoors. Fill a seed tray or small pots with seed-starting mix (a light, sterile blend of peat moss or coco coir and perlite). Moisten the mix before planting so it is damp but not waterlogged.
Sprinkle the tiny mushroom grass seeds across the surface and press them gently into the soil. Do not cover them completely—mushroom grass seeds need light to sprout. Mist the surface lightly with water and cover the tray with a humidity dome or plastic wrap to keep moisture in. Place the tray in a warm spot (65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit) with bright, indirect light.
Germination usually takes 10 to 21 days. Check the soil daily and mist if the surface begins to dry out. Once seedlings emerge and develop their first true leaves, remove the cover and move the tray to a bright window or under grow lights. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Thin seedlings if they become crowded, leaving the strongest plants about 1 inch apart.
Direct sowing mushroom grass seed outdoors
You can also sow seed directly into the ground after your last spring frost date has passed and soil temperatures reach at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Prepare the planting area by removing weeds and mixing in 2 to 3 inches of compost or aged bark to improve drainage and add organic matter.
Scatter the seed across the prepared bed and press it gently into the soil surface. Water lightly with a fine mist so the seed stays in contact with the soil. Keep the area consistently moist for the first 3 to 4 weeks while seeds germinate and seedlings establish. Once plants are 2 to 3 inches tall, you can reduce watering frequency but continue to keep the soil from drying out completely.
Direct sowing works best in areas with reliable spring moisture or where you can water regularly. In drier climates, starting seed indoors and transplanting gives you better control over moisture levels during the critical germination period.
Transplanting seedlings outdoors
Harden off indoor seedlings before moving them to the garden. Place the tray outside in a sheltered, shaded spot for 2 to 3 hours on the first day, then gradually increase outdoor time over 7 to 10 days. This acclimates the young plants to outdoor light, wind, and temperature swings.
Space transplants 6 to 12 inches apart, depending on how quickly you want full coverage. Closer spacing fills in faster but costs more in plants. Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball, set the plant at the same depth it was growing in the tray, and firm soil around it gently. Water thoroughly after planting.
Mushroom grass spreads slowly, so it may take 8 to 12 weeks to form a dense groundcover. Water regularly during the first month to help plants establish. Once established, mushroom grass is drought-tolerant and requires little maintenance beyond occasional watering during dry spells.
Site conditions and soil preparation
Mushroom grass thrives in partial shade to full shade and actually performs better in shade than in direct sun. It tolerates sun in cooler climates but may struggle or turn brown in hot, sunny locations. Choose a spot under trees, along a north-facing wall, or in other areas that receive dappled or filtered light for most of the day.
Soil should be moist and well-draining. If your soil is heavy clay or compacted, work in 2 to 3 inches of compost, aged bark, or peat moss before planting. This improves drainage and adds organic matter that helps retain moisture without waterlogging. Mushroom grass does not tolerate standing water, so avoid low spots where water collects after rain.
The plant is not fussy about soil pH and grows in slightly acidic to neutral soil. A soil test is not necessary unless your soil is extremely alkaline or you suspect nutrient deficiencies. A light process of balanced fertilizer (such as 10-10-10) in spring supports growth, but mushroom grass does not require heavy feeding.
Comparing seed versus starter plants
Seed is cheaper per square foot but takes longer to establish and requires more attention during germination and early growth. A packet of seed costs $4 to $12 and can cover a larger area, but you will wait 8 to 12 weeks for full coverage. Seed is the right choice if you have time, patience, and a large area to fill.
Starter plants (plugs or divisions) cost more upfront—typically $1 to $3 per plant—but establish faster and give you visible results within 4 to 6 weeks. They are less fussy about moisture during establishment and are a better choice if you have a smaller area or want faster coverage. Many gardeners use a mix: seed in large open areas and starter plants along borders or in high-visibility spots.
Common mistakes when growing mushroom grass from seed
Overwatering is the most common problem. Mushroom grass seed and seedlings need consistent moisture, but waterlogged soil causes rot and fungal disease. Water when the soil surface feels dry to the touch, but never let water pool on top. Use a mist bottle for indoor trays rather than pouring water directly.
Planting seed too deep or covering it completely prevents germination. Mushroom grass seeds need light to sprout, so press them gently into the soil surface and leave them exposed. A thin layer of sand can help keep seed in place without blocking light.
Sowing seed too early in spring, before soil has warmed, results in slow or failed germination. Wait until soil temperatures reach at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit, which usually occurs 1 to 2 weeks after your last frost date. Using a soil thermometer takes the guesswork out of timing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I grow mushroom grass from seed in containers?
Yes. Use a container with drainage holes and fill it with potting mix amended with compost. Sow seed on the surface, mist lightly, and keep the mix consistently moist. Mushroom grass spreads slowly, so a 12-inch pot will take several months to fill in. Containers dry out faster than garden beds, so check moisture daily.
How long does mushroom grass seed stay viable?
Mushroom grass seed typically remains viable for 2 to 3 years when stored in a cool, dry place. Keep seed packets in an airtight container in a cool basement or refrigerator to extend viability. Check the seed packet for the harvest date or germination rate to gauge freshness.
What temperature do mushroom grass seeds need to germinate?
Mushroom grass germinates best at 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Temperatures below 60 degrees slow germination significantly, and temperatures above 80 degrees can reduce germination rates. Consistent warmth and moisture are more important than fluctuating temperatures.
Is mushroom grass seed hard to find?
It is less common than lawn grass seed but widely available from online retailers and specialty nurseries. If your local garden center does not stock it, they can usually order it for you. Online ordering is often faster and gives you more variety in cultivars and seed companies.
Do I need to scarify or soak mushroom grass seed before planting?
No. Mushroom grass seed has a thin coat and does not require scarification or soaking. Soak only if the seed packet specifically recommends it. Planting fresh seed directly on moist soil is the standard method.