Buffalo grass is a hardy, drought-tolerant grass species well adapted to arid climates, making it a popular turf choice in Australia. However, like all species of plants, it can still be affected by damage from various sources that result in visible lawn problems. Unfortunately, these lawn problems may not always be easy to spot by untrained eyes. Here’s how you can visually check your buffalo lawn for damage and keep it healthy.
Observe the Colour of Your Grass
One of the first things to look for when checking for damage in your buffalo grass is the colour. Healthy buffalo grass is a bright green colour. If you notice yellowing or brown patches, it may indicate that the grass is under stress or suffering from a disease. Unsure whether the colour you’re seeing may be problematic? Look for pictures of grass problems and compare them with your lawn.
Check for Fungal Growth
Fungal growth on your buffalo grass can indicate the presence of a fungal disease. To check for fungal growth:
- Look for any white, powdery substances on the blades of grass or in the soil.
- Pay particular attention to areas that are yellowing or browning.
- If you suspect that your turf is suffering from a fungal disease, call a professional to provide lawn repairs. Moreover, they can confirm your suspicions and provide appropriate treatment.
Look for Weed Overgrowth
An increase in weeds is one of the first signs of damage in buffalo grass. Weeds can outcompete your buffalo grass for nutrients and moisture, leading to a thinning or patchy lawn. To check for an increase in weeds:
- Look for any green plants that don’t match the rest of your lawn since they are often different in appearance from the grass in your lawn.
- Look for plants with different leaf shapes, colours and growth patterns than your grass.
- Weeds also tend to grow faster, so if you notice any plants that are growing quicker than the rest of your lawn, they may be weeds.
Many weeds are more drought-tolerant than lawn grass, which means they will continue to grow even when your lawn is under stress from a lack of moisture. If you notice any plants that seem to be thriving in dry conditions, they may be weeds.
Spot Dry Patches and Bare Patches
Dry patches in your buffalo grass can signify drought stress, over-mowing, or other damage. To check for dry patches, look for areas of your lawn that are brown or yellow and not as lush as the rest of the lawn.
Bare patches in your buffalo grass can be a sign of disease, pests, or over-mowing. To check for bare patches, look for areas of your lawn that are void of grass. If you notice any bare patches, it may be time to take action.
Check for Thinning Turf
Thinning turf can be a sign of disease, pests, or over-mowing. To check for thinning turf, simply look for areas of your lawn where the grass is sparse and not as thick as it used to be.
Why is It Important to Check Your Lawn for Visible Signs of Damage?
Visually checking your buffalo grass for damage is an essential step in keeping it healthy and attractive. By observing the appearance of your lawn, you can quickly identify any potential problems and take action to address them. By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your buffalo grass stays healthy and beautiful for years to come.
Keep Your Buffalo Lawn Healthy and Stunning at Green Oasis
Do you spot visual signs that your buffalo lawn may be in trouble? Get in touch with our team of lawn experts at Green Oasis Landscaping today so we can remedy the issue before it gets worse. Among our lawn maintenance services, we specialise in Sir Walter Buffalo maintenance and other turf types as well. Call us to get an instant quote and learn more about what we can do for your lawn.
