Buffalograss (Bouteloua dactyloides) is becoming an increasingly popular choice for lawns in Arizona, particularly among homeowners who are seeking a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant alternative to traditional turfgrasses. Popular warm-season turfs like Bermudagrass and St. Augustinegrass have long been the standard for Arizona homeowners, but buffalograss may be the right grass for your lawn if you have not seen the type of lawn care success you want for your property.
Keep reading to learn more about the exceptional tolerances and eco-friendly maintenance requirements that make buffalograss a new favorite across the state. Make sure you check out more maintenance tips and tricks from Little John’s Lawns after reading, and reach out to us for information on our services across the Gilbert area.
Arizona's climate, characterized by hot summers, mild winters, and low annual rainfall, presents unique challenges for lawn care. Many traditional turfgrasses, such as Kentucky bluegrass or tall fescue, struggle in these conditions, requiring extensive watering, fertilization, and maintenance. Buffalograss, however, is well-suited to this environment due to its inherent characteristics.
As a native warm-season grass species, buffalograss has evolved to thrive in the harsh conditions of the desert Southwest, making it well-adapted to Arizona's environment. Its deep root system allows buffalograss to withstand a variety of stressors (weeds, pests, etc.) and extended periods of drought with minimal irrigation, making it an ideal choice for homeowners looking to conserve water and reduce their environmental impact. Buffalograss boasts excellent heat tolerance, enabling it to maintain its lush green appearance even during the hottest months of the year in Arizona.
Buffalograss Benefits:
Establishing a buffalograss lawn in Arizona involves careful planning and timing. Everything starts with proper seeding when it comes to lawn care, as maintenance efforts can only do so much if the conditions are not optimal during the germination of the grass. The following steps provide a detailed guide on how to seed a buffalograss lawn effectively.
Step 1) Planning and Timing: The optimal time to seed buffalograss in Arizona is during the late spring to early summer, typically between May and July. This period aligns with the warm temperatures that promote rapid seed germination and growth. Soil temperatures should consistently be above 60°F for the best results.
Step 2) Soil Preparation: Start by testing the soil to determine its pH and nutrient levels. Buffalograss prefers a slightly alkaline to neutral pH (between 6.0 and 7.5). If necessary, amend the soil with lime or sulfur to adjust the pH. Clear the area of any existing vegetation, rocks, and debris. Loosen the top 4 to 6 inches of soil using a rototiller or garden fork, and incorporate organic matter, such as compost, to improve soil structure and fertility.
Step 3) Seeding: Buffalograss can be seeded using either broadcast seeding or hydroseeding methods. For broadcast seeding, evenly distribute the seeds at a rate of 2 to 3 pounds per 1,000 square feet. After seeding, lightly rake the soil to ensure good seed-to-soil contact, and then roll the area with a lawn roller to press the seeds into the soil. Hydroseeding, a process where seed, mulch, and water are mixed together and sprayed onto the soil, can also be effective for large areas.
Step 4) Watering: After seeding, water the area lightly and frequently to keep the soil consistently moist until the seeds germinate. This typically takes 7 to 14 days, depending on temperature and soil conditions. Once the grass has established, gradually reduce the frequency of watering, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Maintaining a buffalograss lawn involves specific care practices that vary with each season. Understanding how to properly care for your lawn throughout the year will ensure it remains healthy and attractive. Though many different lawn care tasks can improve your turf’s health in each season, the list below details some of the most important tips to keep in mind for seasonal success.
Spring is the time to prepare your buffalograss lawn for the growing season. As temperatures begin to warm up in March and April, the grass will start to emerge from dormancy.
During the summer, buffalograss will be in its peak growing season, and proper care is essential to maintain its health and appearance.
Fall is a critical time for preparing your buffalograss lawn for the winter months ahead.
During the winter, buffalograss will enter dormancy, turning a tan or straw color. While the grass is dormant, maintenance requirements are minimal.
While buffalograss is well-suited to Arizona's climate, homeowners may encounter a few challenges unique to this type of lawn. One common issue is the slow establishment period, as buffalograss takes longer to fully mature compared to other grasses. Buffalograss may be prone to developing bare spots in heavily shaded areas, as it thrives best in full sunlight.
It can also struggle with weed invasions during early growth stages, requiring diligent weed management to ensure a healthy, uniform lawn. Despite these challenges, with proper care and attention, buffalograss can still provide a resilient and attractive lawn.
Caring for a buffalograss lawn in Arizona requires an understanding of the unique characteristics of this grass and the specific needs of the region's climate. Buffalograss gives homeowners a beautiful, low-maintenance lawn that is both environmentally friendly and well-suited to the arid conditions of the Southwest.
Whether you're establishing a new lawn or transitioning from a more traditional turfgrass, buffalograss is a smart and practical choice for our area. For help getting started with your new buffalograss lawn, contact us today for a free quote!
Welcome to Little John’s Lawns! We are a family-owned company that specializes in providing professional lawn maintenance, lawn care, pest control, and irrigation services in Gilbert, Chandler, Mesa, and Queen Creek, AZ.