Landscape Design

Bermuda grass is a great option for a lush, low-maintenance, and resilient lawn. It is renowned for its resilience, capacity to flourish in hot environments, and capacity for self-healing.

Bermuda grass is quite affordable whether you're growing it from seed or spreading sod, particularly in warmer regions. We'll cover everything in this blog, from how to grow Bermuda grass to keep your lawn looking great all year.

What is Bermuda Grass?

Native to tropical and subtropical areas, Bermuda grass (Cynodon dactylon) is a warm-season perennial grass. Bermuda grass is a popular choice for lawns, sports fields, golf courses, and parks because of its bright green color, robust growth, and durability. It is particularly appropriate for areas with lengthy summers and moderate winters.

Key Features of Bermuda Grass: 

  • Heat and Drought Tolerance: Because of its exceptional resistance to heat and drought, Bermuda grass is perfect for areas with hot summers and little precipitation. Compared to many other varieties of grass, it needs less water once established.
  • Fast-Growing: Bermuda grass is renowned for its capacity to establish and develop rapidly. When you sow Bermuda grass from seed or sod, it quickly fills up to form a dense, lush lawn.
  • Self-Healing: The capacity of Bermuda grass to heal itself is one of its most notable qualities. Because it spreads via rhizomes, or underground stems, and stolons, or above-ground runners, it may bounce back fast from minor damage, foot traffic, and wear and tear.
  • Low Maintenance: Compared to other grass varieties, Bermuda grass is relatively easy to care for once established. It requires less frequent mowing and is less prone to disease and pests than some cool-season grasses.

Benefits of Bermuda Grass for the Environment

 Erosion Control: Because of its thick growth, Bermuda grass is a great way to reduce erosion, particularly on slopes or in places with loose soil. Its extensive root system retains soil, halting soil loss and runoff.

Carbon Sequestration: Bermuda grass is an eco-friendly landscaping option because, like all plants, it absorbs carbon dioxide and helps lower your carbon footprint.

Bermuda Grass in Different Soil Types

  • Sandy Soil: Bermuda grass grows in well-draining soil, but it may need more frequent watering if grown in sandy soils. If your soil is sandy, adding organic matter or compost can help retain moisture and improve fertility.
  • Clay Soil: Bermuda grass may struggle in heavy clay soils due to poor drainage. Aeration is especially important in these cases to prevent compaction and allow roots to grow deep. Adding sand or organic matter can help improve the soil structure.

Despite its preference for warm climates, Bermuda grass does go through a dormant period during the chilly winter months, turning brown and ceasing to grow. Although ryegrass can be used for overseeding to maintain your lawn green all year round, this makes it less suitable for regions with severe winters.

Step 1: Planting Bermuda Grass

Planting Bermuda grass successfully starts with understanding the best practices for timing, soil preparation, and seeding techniques. Here’s how to get started:

1. Time

Late spring, when soil temperatures regularly remain between 65°F and 80°F (18°C and 27°C), is the ideal time of year to sow Bermuda grass. Warm temperatures encourage quick germination, so planting at this time guarantees the grass a good start.

2. Preparing the Soil

A successful outcome depends on the soil being prepared properly.

  • To get rid of any debris, dead grass, or weeds, rake the soil vigorously.
  • To provide the seeds a favorable surface to settle onto, make shallow grooves or tiny ruts in the soil. 
  • For more even coverage, this guarantees improved seed-to-soil contact.
  • Examine the soil. The ideal pH range for Bermuda grass is 6.0 to 6.5, which is slightly acidic. Depending on the findings of a soil test, you might need to amend your soil.

3. Choosing Seeds

Selecting pure Bermuda grass seed is important. Combining different kinds of grass might cause uneven growth and lower your lawn's general health. For optimal outcomes, choose certified, high-quality seed varieties.

4. Method of Seeding

For consistent seed dispersal, use a broadcast spreader or seed caster. Steer clear of overseeding, which can result in congestion and restrict each seed's access to air and water.

5. Propagation

Under optimal circumstances, Bermuda grass seeds will start to germinate 3–7 days after being seeded. The grass might not fill in for a few weeks, though. To make sure the seeds are receiving enough water, have patience and periodically check the soil's moisture content.

Step 2: Setting Up and Maintaining Your Bermuda Lawn

The next important step after planting your Bermuda grass or sod is to keep it healthy until it takes root.

1. Watering

To keep the soil moist until the seeds have sprouted, water it frequently and sparingly. During the early phases of growth, try to water every day, but be careful not to wet the soil too much.Continue watering often once seeds sprout, but let the soil dry out a little in between applications to promote deeper root development.

2. Decreased Incidence Following Establishment

Once your Bermuda grass is established, water it more deeply but less frequently. Since the roots have already started to expand, the grass will benefit from more frequent but deeper watering to promote strong root systems.

3. Applying fertilizer

To promote healthy growth, apply a slow-release nitrogen fertilizer six weeks later. Nitrogen helps Bermuda grass grow densely and acquire a beautiful green color during the growing season. Apply more fertilizer every 6–8 weeks under the results of soil tests.

Step 3: Bermuda Grass Mowing

The secret to keeping a healthy Bermuda grass is proper mowing. The best way to mow Bermuda grass is as follows:

1. Initial Cutting

Before you mow for the first time, wait until the grass is at least two inches long. This promotes faster grass growth and fills in barren areas.

2. Height of Cutting

Keep your Bermuda grass between one and two inches long. Maintaining the grass at this height prevents weeds from taking root and promotes horizontal growth.

3. Type of Mower

To guarantee clean cuts, choose sharp mower blades. The grass may become torn by dull blades, creating jagged edges and making it more susceptible to illness.A rotary mower will do just fine as long as the blades are kept sharp, but a reel mower will give you a smoother, more equal cut.

Step 4: Irrigation and Watering for Bermuda Grass

Even while Bermuda grass can withstand some drought, it still needs regular watering in the summer. Here's how to efficiently water:

1. Regularity

Apply 1 to 1.25 inches of water every week to your Bermuda grass, depending on the weather. During really hot and dry times, increase the amount.

2. Techniques

For bigger areas, use sprinklers to provide uniform coverage.Because drip irrigation reduces water wastage and directly targets the root zones, it is perfect for gardens and places with inadequate drainage.

3. Time

To reduce water loss from evaporation, water in the morning or late at night. To avoid scorching your grass, do not water during the middle of the day.

Step 5: Adding fertilizer to Bermuda grass

Keeping a lush, green Bermuda lawn requires proper fertilization. For optimal outcomes, adhere to these guidelines:

1. Schedule for Fertilization

Fertilize two to four times a year, from March to November. Correct application timing will guarantee that your grass receives the nutrients it requires during critical growth stages.

2. Fertiliser Types

To encourage robust, green growth, use nitrogen-rich granular fertilizers. To guarantee a consistent flow of nutrients throughout time, look for slow-release formulations.

3. Nitrogen's Significance

The most important nutrient for Bermuda grass to grow thick and green is nitrogen. Choose a fertilizer that prioritizes nitrogen and has a balanced N-P-K ratio (nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium).

Step 6: Control of Weeds and Pests in Bermuda Grass

Despite its resilience, Bermuda grass is susceptible to common lawn issues including pests and weeds. Here's how to keep both in check:

1. Control of Weeds

To stop weed seeds from sprouting, apply pre-emergent herbicides early in the spring. To control any existing weeds, apply post-emergent herbicides sparingly once the grass has been established, usually after two to three mowing cycles.

2. Control of Pests

Common pests of Bermuda grass are chinch bugs and grubs. Whenever you notice damage to your lawn, treat it using insecticides. Use of pesticides during the establishment stage should be avoided as it may damage newly planted grass.

Maintenance and Seasonal Care for Bermuda Grass

Your Bermuda grass will stay healthy and vibrant if you take care of it all year long. To enhance soil structure and enable nutrients to reach the roots, aerate your lawn in the spring. Use fertilizer high in nitrogen to encourage robust development throughout the growing season.

  • Summertime: Make sure to water deeply while it's hot outside, especially during the hottest portion of the summer. To maintain your lawn at its best, you must mow it frequently, but don't cut it too short.
  • Fall: To assist the grass get ready for the cooler months, apply fertilizers high in potassium. To manage any late-season weeds, use post-emergent herbicides if required.
  • Wintertime: In the winter, Bermuda grass turns brown and goes dormant. Since the grass doesn't require much moisture at this time, avoid fertilizing and watering it as little as possible.

Options for Organic Lawn Maintenance for Bermuda GrassThere are several natural substitutes for chemical fertilizers and pesticides that are suitable for Bermuda grass if you're interested in maintaining an organic lawn:

  • Compost Tea: Applying compost tea as a foliar spray gives your Bermuda grass important nutrients without the use of harsh pesticides.
  • Organic: Search for organic fertilizers, such as fish emulsion or lucerne meal, which offer slow-release nutrients and are kinder to the environment.
  • Natural Weed Control: As environmentally friendly substitutes for conventional herbicides, think about using vinegar-based sprays or corn gluten meal for weed control.

Pet-Friendly Lawn Maintenance and Bermuda Grass

Due to its resilience and durability under high foot traffic, Bermuda grass is an excellent option for pet owners. But to maintain the greatest possible condition for your lawn while allowing pets:

  • To avoid burn marks and any damage from pet urine, pick up waste as soon as possible.
  • Rinse pet-frequented areas frequently to lessen the effect of pet feces on the lawn.

Conclusion

Bermuda grass is a fantastic chance to create a stunning and useful lawn. You may have a lush, hardy garden all year long with the right maintenance, which includes early planting, the ideal height for mowing, frequent watering, and the right fertilizer.At Percys Lawn Care, we think every lawn should receive the kind of maintenance that turns it into a space where your family can unwind, have fun, and create memories. With years of experience, our team of professionals customizes our services to your Bermuda grass's unique requirements. We're here to make sure your lawn flourishes with the least amount of work on your side, from choosing the best grass for your climate to offering regular upkeep.

Ready to transform your lawn? Contact Percys Lawn Care today for a free consultation and let us help you achieve the lawn of your dreams.