Buffalograss (Buchloe dactyloides) in Grass North Carolina

Description

Buffalograss (Buchloe dactyloides) is a warm-season grass native to North America known for its exceptional drought tolerance, low maintenance requirements, and dense, fine-textured turf. It’s commonly used for lawns, parks, golf courses, and naturalized landscapes in regions with hot summers and low rainfall.

Description:

Appearance:

• Buffalograss has fine-textured, gray-green blades that form a dense, low-growing turf.
• It has a unique, soft texture and a naturally light green color, which can vary depending on soil conditions and climate.

Growth Habit:

• Buffalograss spreads through above-ground stolons and below-ground rhizomes, forming a thick, sod-forming turf.
• It has a slow to moderate growth rate and requires minimal maintenance once established.

Climate:

• Thrives in warm, arid climates and performs best in regions with hot summers and low to moderate rainfall.
• Buffalograss is well-suited to the central and southern United States but can also be grown in other regions with similar climate conditions.

Sun Requirements:

• Prefers full sun and thrives in areas with ample sunlight. Buffalograss is one of the most sun-tolerant turfgrasses and can withstand intense heat and sunlight.
• Performs best in areas with at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day.

Drought Tolerance:

• Buffalograss exhibits exceptional drought tolerance once established, thanks to its deep root system and ability to store water in its tissues.
• Requires minimal supplemental watering compared to cool-season grasses, making it an ideal choice for water-wise landscapes.

Planting Instructions:

1. Site Preparation:

• Choose a planting site with well-drained soil and ample sunlight. Buffalograss prefers sandy or loamy soil but can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay and alkaline soils.
• Prepare the planting area by clearing the site of any existing vegetation, weeds, rocks, and debris.
• Loosen the soil to a depth of 4 to 6 inches using a garden fork, tiller, or similar tool to improve soil structure and promote root growth.

2. Seeding or Sodding:

• Buffalograss can be established from seed or sod. Seeding is more economical but requires more time for the grass to establish.
• For seeding, sow Buffalograss seed evenly across the prepared area using a broadcast spreader or by hand. The recommended seeding rate is typically 1 to 3 pounds of pure live seed per 1,000 square feet for new lawns.
• For sodding, lay Buffalograss sod in a staggered pattern, ensuring good contact with the soil. Roll the sod to eliminate air pockets and promote root-to-soil contact.

3. Watering:

• Keep the newly planted Buffalograss seed or sod consistently moist until the grass establishes, usually within 2 to 3 weeks.
• Water deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth. Once established, Buffalograss requires less frequent watering but should be irrigated during dry periods to prevent stress.

4. Fertilization:

• Apply a starter fertilizer at the time of planting to promote root development and establishment.
• Buffalograss has low fertility requirements and typically does not need additional fertilization unless soil tests indicate deficiencies.

5. Mowing:

• Buffalograss has a slow growth rate and requires infrequent mowing compared to other turfgrasses. Begin mowing when the grass reaches a height of 3 to 4 inches.
• Set the mower blade to a height of 2 to 3 inches and mow as needed to maintain the desired height. Avoid cutting more than one-third of the grass blade in a single mowing to prevent stress.

6. Maintenance:

• Buffalograss requires minimal maintenance once established. This includes occasional mowing to maintain a uniform height and periodic watering during prolonged dry spells.
• Monitor the lawn for pests, diseases, and weeds, and take appropriate action as needed to preserve turf health and appearance.