Last Updated: July 24, 2024
For many Australians, grass is an important part of every residential and commercial landscape. Aussies love the freshness that a good amount of greens brings into any space. Grass is a versatile ground cover that can be used for a variety of purposes, from providing a place for recreation and relaxation to acting as a drought-tolerant alternative to traditional lawns. But what is it specifically about buffalo grass that makes it a hit among Australians?
What Is Buffalo Grass?
Buffalo grass is a type of turfgrass native to the Great Plains region of North America. In the early 1900s, it was introduced to Australia, where it quickly became a popular choice for home gardens, offices, and public parks.
What Does Buffalo Grass Look Like?
If it’s your first time hearing about buffalo grass, you probably don’t even know how to identify it right away. But that’s alright because we’re here to help. Buffalo grass may vary in how it looks and feels, but in general, this grass has broad leaf blades with a rich and bright green colour, with some variants having a shade of blue. It’s low growing and has been observed to spread by stolons (a narrow stem that grows horizontally).
The buffalo grass’ description raises the question of why Aussies like it so much. After all, by the definition alone, it doesn’t seem to be much different from other variants. But there are actually several reasons why it is such a popular choice in Australia.
First of all, buffalo grass is highly drought-tolerant, which makes it ideal for regions of the country that experience low rainfall. Second, it’s relatively low-maintenance, meaning it does not require frequent mowing or watering. Finally, buffalo grass has a deep root system that helps to prevent soil erosion. Of course, this also means you have to water it thoroughly to ensure that the moisture and nutrients reach the tip of the roots and not just the parts that are closest to the surface.
Although buffalo grass is highly resilient, you should not just plant it and leave it. There are still some things you need to remember when choosing this particular variant.
Things to Keep in Mind When Planting Soft Leaf Buffalo Grass
When it comes to planting soft-leaf buffalo grass, you need to remember the following things: First and foremost, this type of grass does best in full sun and well-drained soil. That means planting it close to winter is a terrible idea, and using clay soil should be avoided at all costs. Soft-leaf buffalo grass is a warm-season grass, which means it will go dormant in the winter months.
In terms of watering, soft-leaf buffalo grass is relatively drought-tolerant once it’s established. However, you’ll still need to water it regularly during its first growing season. Once it’s well grown, aim to water the grass about once per week, or as needed. There are some basic tests you can do to check moisture levels so you don’t under or overwater your lawn.
Finally, when it comes to mowing, you’ll want to set your mower to a higher setting. This will help prevent the grass from being scalped, which can damage its growth. The ideal height of this natural lawn is somewhere between 35 and 65mm. Any shorter and you lose the vibrant green colours the grass is famous for and any longer will encourage too much moisture as well as create a suitable environment for breeding bacteria or serving as a good spot for vermin or insects.
Note though, that these are general guidelines, and any maintenance you have to do will still depend on the specific type of buffalo grass.
Easy Buffalo Grass Maintenance Tips
Buffalo grass maintenance isn’t complicated. Sure it may require some work, but not as much work as other grass species. Here are some tips you can follow to ensure the longevity and health of your natural buffalo grass lawn:
- Mow Regularly
Buffalo grass should be mowed at least once a week during the growing season. This will help keep it healthy and prevent it from getting too long.
- Fertilise Regularly
Buffalo grass should be fertilised at least once a month during the growing season. Use a fertiliser specifically designed for buffalo grass. Exercise caution when fertilising before winter to prevent damage to the grass and its root system.
- Water Deeply and Regularly
Buffalo grass needs to be watered deeply and evenly to stay healthy. Water it at least twice a week during the growing season and ensure that the water penetrates at least 15 cm into the soil. Remember, buffalo grass roots can spread better with consistent watering, ensuring the health of your lawn.
- Control Weeds
Weeds can compete with buffalo grass for water and nutrients, so it is important to control them as soon as you spot them. Hand-pulling is usually the best method, as it discourages regrowth, but you can also use a herbicide if necessary.
- Dethatch
Using a Thatcher breaks up and loosens the layer of dead and living plant stems and roots that naturally accumulate on the soil’s surface and at the base of the grass blades. Dethatching improves air circulation and encourages water penetration so it reaches the grass roots.
- Reseed as Needed
Buffalo grass will naturally reseed itself, but if the lawn starts to look thin, you may need to do it yourself. Use a quality Buffalo grass seed mix from your local nursery or garden centre.
Can You Maintain Buffalo Grass on Your Own?
Maintaining Buffalo grass on your own can be quite challenging, especially considering the specific care it requires. Hiring professionals ensures that your lawn gets expert care tailored to its needs, maximising its lushness and health. Professional landscapers have the knowledge and tools to manage Buffalo grass efficiently, saving you time and effort while preventing common mistakes that can lead to long-term damage. Their lawn care expertise ensures your Buffalo grass remains vibrant and healthy year-round, making it a worthwhile investment.
Get Your Own Buffalo Grass Lawn Today
Buffalo grass lawns are a popular choice for Australian gardens for several reasons. If you are looking for a drought-tolerant, low-maintenance turfgrass, then buffalo grass is the right option for you. Ready to start your turf project? You don’t have to do it all on your own. There are lawn companies like Green Oasis that can help you with turf installation, maintenance, and more. Get in touch with our team for more details!
