Buffalo Grass Seed (lb)

Buffalo grass

Scientifically known as Bouteloua dactyloides, buffalo grass is a perennial warm-season grass that thrives in arid regions with a minimum rainfall of 12 inches. It’s an excellent choice for lawns and meadows, especially in areas where water resources are limited. Buffalo grass is sod-forming, making it perfect for creating dense, resilient turf. It grows best in soil temperatures above 60°F and can cover large areas, making it ideal for lawns measured in square feet. This warm-season grass provides a low-maintenance, drought-resistant solution for any landscape.

Adaptability to Arid Climates:

• Ideal for Arid Regions: Buffalo grass is well-suited for areas with low rainfall, making it an excellent choice for lawns and meadows in arid climates.
• Erosion Control: This grass provides effective erosion control on ranges and pastures that aren't primarily sandy due to its spreading nature.

Propagation and Growth:

• Spreading Technique: Buffalo grass spreads through seeds and surface runners that root as they grow, effectively stabilizing the soil.
• Grazing Tolerance: It tolerates close grazing (1"-3") and is palatable to various livestock classes, except during dormancy.

Planting Rates and Growth Specifications:

• Application Rates: For lawns, the recommended rate is 3-4 lb/1000 sq ft, while for pasture, it's 8-10 lb/acre.
• Germination Period: Seeds generally germinate within 7-30 days.
• Mature Height: Grows to about 5 inches in height.
• Maturity Duration: Takes approximately 3-4 months to mature.

Resilience and Low Maintenance:

• Adaptation Traits: Buffalo grass tolerates drought, cold winters, poor soil, and heavy traffic, remaining pest and disease-free when not over-watered or over-fertilized.
• Seasonal Changes: Turns brown from early fall to late spring, but interplanting with Blue Wildrye can help maintain winter green-up.

Planting and Maintenance Tips:

• Summer Planting: For best results, plant during summer months with consistent irrigation until the grass is established.
• Soil Moisture: Buffalo grass is drought-tolerant, but initial irrigation is necessary for proper establishment and maintaining soil moisture.
• Environmental Benefits: Its robust root system prevents soil erosion, contributing to its ecological significance.

Cultivation and Benefits:

• Low Maintenance: Once established, buffalo grass is almost indestructible, requiring minimal maintenance.
• Soil Enrichment: This grass enriches the soil by adding organic matter and improving soil structure, benefiting the overall ecosystem.

Buffalo grass, with its resilience, adaptability to arid climates, and ecological benefits, is an excellent choice for sustainable landscaping, erosion control, and low-maintenance lawns in regions with limited water resources. This sod-forming grass grows up to several inches tall and effectively manages soil moisture, making it perfect for areas where water conservation is crucial.