Cover Crop Application Rate Calculator

How much cover crop seed do I need?

Enter your measured area and the seeding-rate range for the product you plan to sow. The calculator estimates the total pounds of seed to order.

Area (square feet)

Seeding rate range

Minimum

Maximum

Pounds per 1,000 square feet

The displayed rates are editable planning examples. Replace them with the rate listed on your chosen seed product or current planting guide.

Estimated seed needed

Enter your area to calculate

Results are rounded up to the nearest whole pound.

Measure the planting area. For rectangular beds, multiply length by width. One acre equals 43,560 square feet.
Confirm the product rate. Rates vary by species, blend, planting method, seed treatment, soil, climate, and the amount of cover desired.
Enter the rate range. For square feet, use pounds per 1,000 square feet. For acres, use pounds per acre.
Plan for the seed treatment. Check whether legumes are raw, pre-inoculated, or Nitrocoated before purchasing a separate inoculant.

Square feet
Seed (lb) = area ÷ 1,000 × rate

Acres
Seed (lb) = acres × rate

Choose the right seed

Use current product directions for the final rate, timing, planting method, and inoculation requirements.