Finding the perfect instant lawn isn’t always the easiest job.
With the range of species available, each with its own set of pros and cons, do’s and don’ts, the decision can be a bit overwhelming. Do you opt for perennial species that require a fastidious maintenance schedule, or go for the low-maintenance lawn that may not give you the appearance you’re looking for?
Luckily, there’s a simple, stunning solution!
Buffalo grass, otherwise known as Bouteloua dactyloides, offers a unique solution to your landscape design requirements. It carries a number of benefits and advantages that make this species a must-have for any garden or commercial landscape.
This species of grass only grows up to 20cm tall and is identified by its grey- or bluish-green colour, growing well in a variety of environments and conditions. Indigenous to the North American region, this shortgrass is perfect for lawns due to its unique ability to quickly spread to form a dense carpet.
Buffalo grass is a top choice thanks to its predisposition for warmer climates and drought-resistant characteristics. Despite fairing better in warmer climates, it still does very well against harsher, colder weather as well. Its fine-textured blades and deep root system are an excellent option for erosion control. It thrives in most soil types and conditions, making it an adaptive species. Not only that, but among its fellow lawn species, it requires the least amount of maintenance and attention.
You won’t have to constantly mow the lawn, nor will you need to resort to the use of fertilizers or pesticides. In fact, you could mow Buffalo grass a handful of times a year, or even allow it to grow if you’d prefer a more natural look. Should you choose to mow your lawn, you should allow it to remain relatively long, although a minimum height of 5-8cm will allow this species to compete with weeds and remain healthy, as it is less invasive than its counterparts and more prone to weeds. Keeping this grass in good condition will allow it to be competitive enough to keep weeds at bay. It is also advisable that you lay this species in dappled shade as it does well in a fair amount of shade, but will suffer in full shade.
Watering is best done frequently and quickly to avoid over-saturating the soil.
In winter, this lawn will often go dormant. You can, however, maintain a healthy green appearance with the proper care. In summer, this warm-season grass will thrive, meaning you will need to up your maintenance game to ensure your lawn is in the best condition.
When caring for your Buffalo grass, it is imperative that you look out for a number of pests and signs that your lawn may not be doing well, or requires a bit more maintenance. While this grass is more resistant to pests and diseases, being able to identify and monitor signs.
Be sure to keep an eye out for the following:
- Buffalograss False Smut (fungal disease)
This fungal disease is caused by ‘cercospora seminalis’, can be identified by the appearance and formation of small black spheres of 1-3mm and causes considerable yield loss and reduced seed germination. - Brown Patch (fungal disease)
As simple as needing a change in watering frequency, brown patch is easy to identify early enough to remedy. It may be an indication of over-watering, as Buffalo grass requires less watering during certain seasons than most. Watering in the morning is the first step to remedying brown patch as well as less frequent watering, aeration, or even washing your mower of all clippings. - Webworm
Webworm presents itself as ragged, brown spots on your lawn, and may be mistaken for brown patch. The infestation usually starts off small but can grow quickly if not treated. Upon closer inspection, you should notice that the blades appear scalped or grazed due to the webworms feeding. In most cases, a gentle pesticide is the best solution to rid your lawn of webworms. - Armyworm
These can be identified as small caterpillars, commonly known as lawn grubs. The catch is, they only feed on the healthiest, most luscious-looking grass! So even when your lawn is in top condition, we recommend you keep your eyes peeled for these little suckers! Usually prevalent throughout the warmer seasons, and if left untreated, these infestations can become a repeat occurrence.They are difficult to find, but you can usually tell you have an infestation by the rate at which your lawn deteriorates. The damage caused is spread out over large areas. The best remedy is an insecticide once you’ve determined the existence of an infestation, for which there are a number of testing methods. Reviving your lawn once the infestation has been removed is as easy as practicing good lawn care. - African Black Beetle
If your lawn has become straw-like or bears a number of yellowed patches, you may have an infestation of black beetles. Laid in spring to early summer, the African black beetle is a common presence in the ecosystem and plays an important role. However, when there are large numbers feeding on your lawn, the infestation and subsequent damage will affect your Buffalo grass’ ability to withstand drought and colder weather.
These pests feed on the roots, causing your grass to peel away easily from the surface of the soil. Unfortunately, due to the rapid rate at which these pests lay eggs, hatch, and feed, delaying any kind of treatment can be disastrous. An insecticide and proper lawn care will save you the headache of lawn grubs infestations. In order to prevent future infestations, it is best to make use of a gentle pesticide that will not impact or target other organisms, such as bees and earthworms.
It’s no wonder Buffalo grass is an overall favourite for instant lawn. Low maintenance across the seasons and easy to revive should pests get the better of your lawn, it’s affordable and won’t disappoint.
If it sounds like the perfect grass for your garden, get a quote, on supply, installation, maintenance, and more!