Buffalograss (Buchloe dactyloides) in Grass Nevada

Description

Buffalograss (Buchloe dactyloides) is a warm-season, native grass known for its low maintenance requirements, drought tolerance, and ability to form a dense, attractive turf.

Description:

• Appearance: Buffalograss has fine-textured, blue-green foliage that forms a dense, low-growing turf. It spreads through stolons (above-ground runners) and forms a thick sod that is resistant to foot traffic.
• Growth Habit: Buffalograss is a warm-season perennial grass that grows in clumps and spreads slowly by stolons. It has a creeping, prostrate growth habit and typically reaches a height of 4 to 8 inches when unmowed.
• Adaptability: Buffalograss is well-adapted to hot, dry climates and thrives in full sun to partial shade. It is drought-tolerant once established and is commonly used in low-maintenance landscapes, naturalized areas, and erosion control projects.

Planting Instructions:

1. Timing: Buffalograss is best planted in late spring to early summer after the danger of frost has passed and soil temperatures have warmed to 60°F (15.5°C) or higher. Planting too early may result in poor germination.
2. Site Selection: Choose a planting site with full sun exposure and well-drained soil. Buffalograss is sensitive to shade and performs best in areas with at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
3. Soil Preparation: Prepare the planting area by removing weeds, rocks, and debris. Loosen the soil to a depth of 4 to 6 inches to promote good root growth and ensure proper soil aeration.
4. Soil Amendments: Buffalograss prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. Amend the soil as needed to adjust the pH and improve soil fertility, following soil test recommendations.
5. Seed Distribution: Broadcast Buffalograss seed evenly over the prepared soil surface at a rate of 1 to 3 pounds per 1,000 square feet for new plantings. Use a seed spreader or hand broadcaster to ensure even coverage.
6. Covering the SeedLightly rake the soil to cover the seed to a depth of about 1/4 to 1/2 inch. Press the soil lightly to ensure good seed-to-soil contact, which is essential for germination.
7. Watering: Water the seeded area lightly immediately after planting to settle the soil and provide moisture for germination. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during the germination period, which typically takes 7 to 21 days.
8. Establishment: Once established, Buffalograss requires minimal watering and maintenance. It will continue to spread and fill in over time, forming a dense, weed-resistant turf.
9. Mowing: Buffalograss can be mowed occasionally to maintain a neat appearance, but it is not necessary for the health of the grass. Mow at a height of 2 to 3 inches to promote root growth and drought tolerance.

Maintenance:

• Fertilization: Buffalograss is a low-maintenance grass that typically does not require fertilization unless soil tests indicate nutrient deficiencies. Apply a balanced fertilizer sparingly if needed, following soil test recommendations.
• Weed Control: Buffalograss has excellent weed resistance once established but may require occasional spot treatments for weed control. Hand-pull or spot-treat any weeds that may emerge to prevent them from spreading.
• Watering: Once established, Buffalograss is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering. Water deeply but infrequently during periods of prolonged drought to encourage deep root growth and drought resistance.