Buffalograss (Bouteloua dactyloides) might not be the first grass that comes to mind when you think of Louisiana lawns, but it’s gaining attention among homeowners who want a hardy alternative to the usual turf types. While St. Augustinegrass and Zoysiagrass have long been the dominant warm-season turf choices here, buffalograss is being used more and more by homeowners who are tired of intensive upkeep.
If you're searching for a grass that doesn't demand constant maintenance or chemical treatments, buffalograss could be the perfect turf choice for your property!
Louisiana’s climate is typically hot and humid, with long summers, mild winters, and plenty of rain, though droughts can sneak in during late summer or unusually dry years. Buffalograss is known for thriving in open, sunny spaces and tolerating a wide range of soil conditions, making it surprisingly adaptable even outside its native Great Plains range. With proper care, it can establish itself in parts of Louisiana, especially in well-drained areas that don’t remain overly soggy.
Unlike more traditional turf types that can’t handle Louisiana’s summer heat, buffalograss flourishes when the temperatures climb. It grows slowly but steadily, forming a soft, fine-bladed turf that requires less mowing and watering than most other warm-season lawns. That means less time working on your lawn and more time enjoying it.
Key Characteristics:
Buffalograss has a distinct appearance that sets it apart from the more common turfgrasses you’ll see around Louisiana. Its blades are fine-textured, soft to the touch, and typically a blue-green to grayish-green color, giving it a more natural, prairie-like look. During the growing season, the turf forms a dense but low-growing mat, rarely growing taller than 4 to 6 inches if left unmowed. With regular mowing, it maintains a tidy, uniform height around 2 to 3 inches.
This grass doesn’t produce the thick, upright canopy that you might expect from something like St. Augustinegrass. Buffalograss has a spreading, ground-hugging growth habit that creates a soft, flowing appearance across the lawn. Its stolons (above-ground runners) help it fill in and spread over time. When you walk across a buffalograss lawn, the sensation is soft and cushiony underfoot, especially once the turf matures.
Physical Traits:
Although buffalograss grows best from plugs or sod, seeding is an option for establishing new lawns, but be prepared for a bit of patience. Here’s how to set your lawn up for long-term success.
1. Timing:
In Louisiana, the sweet spot for seeding buffalograss falls between late April and early July, once the soil has warmed consistently above 60°F. Seeding too early may result in weak germination, especially if cooler spring fronts roll in.
2. Soil Preparation:
Start with a soil test to determine pH and nutrient levels. Buffalograss thrives in neutral to slightly alkaline soils (ideally 6.0–7.5). If needed, make pH adjustments using lime or sulfur. Remove weeds, old turf, and debris, then till the top few inches of soil to loosen it. Mix in organic material like compost to help with root establishment and moisture retention.
3. Spreading The Seed:
Spread seed at a rate of 2–3 pounds per 1,000 square feet. A broadcast spreader works well for even coverage. After sowing, lightly rake the seed into the soil, then press it down with a roller to ensure good contact. If you have a large area, hydroseeding might be a quicker and more efficient option.
4. Watering To Establish:
Keep the soil moist (not soaked) for the first 2–3 weeks, watering lightly every day or two until germination. After seedlings emerge and begin to root, transition to a deeper but less frequent watering schedule to encourage drought resilience.
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Summer:
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Winter:
Buffalograss isn’t perfect for every Louisiana lawn. It can struggle in shady areas or spots that hold water after rain. Heavy foot traffic or play from pets and kids can also cause wear and bare spots over time. Weed control is especially important during the establishment phase, as buffalograss seedlings compete poorly with aggressive weeds.
Remember that patience is the key to buffalograss success. This grass grows slowly at first, but once it's established, it’s surprisingly tough and requires far less effort than many other turf types.
If you’re looking for a lawn that won’t demand all your time, energy, and water bill, buffalograss is worth considering, especially in sunny Louisiana yards where traditional turf may not thrive. Whether you’re converting an existing lawn or starting from scratch, buffalograss offers a sustainable, attractive option with low upkeep requirements.
For more information on our sodding and seeding services in the Baton Rouge and Lafayette areas, as well as our many other lawn care services, call Brothers today to get started with a free quote!
If you are looking for a reliable lawn care company in Lafayette & Baton Rouge, then look no further. Brothers Lawn Service & Landscaping is your full-service lawn care expert and we promise a 100% satisfaction guaranteed! We ensure the quality of our service by providing personal attention to each and every lawn.