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Types of buffalo grass 

Everything you need to know about buffalo grass varieties 

Buffalo grass is a highly popular choice for Australian lawns, known for its durability, lush green appearance, and ability to thrive in a variety of climates. Whether you're looking for a lawn that offers shade tolerance, drought resistance, or a soft texture underfoot, buffalo grass varieties are an ideal solution for residential and commercial landscapes.

In this blog, we will explore the different types of buffalo grass in Australia, their benefits, and how to maintain a healthy buffalo lawn throughout the year.

For more expertise on buffalo grass types, maintenance tips, and installation assistance, watch our video. 

What is buffalo grass?

Buffalo grass (Stenotaphrum secundatum) is a warm-season grass that is native to tropical and subtropical regions. It is a versatile, hardy grass that can grow in a variety of soil types, making it well-suited to the Australian climate. Buffalo grass is known for its broad, soft leaves, which create a dense and luxurious turf that’s gentle on bare feet. One of the primary reasons buffalo grass is so popular in Australia is its low-maintenance requirements and its ability to thrive in both sunny and shaded areas.

Buffalo grass has become a favourite for homeowners who want a green, healthy lawn with minimal effort. In addition to its aesthetic appeal, buffalo grass has excellent resilience, especially in dry conditions, making it a popular choice for regions with water restrictions.

A brief history of buffalo grass

Buffalo grass has a long history of use in Australia. It was initially introduced as a hardy option for lawns and grazing land in the early 1800s, and over time, it has become a staple in the Australian landscape. Traditionally, buffalo grass was rough and coarse, but through advancements in horticultural science, softer varieties, such as soft-leaf buffalo grass, have been developed.

Over the decades, several buffalo grass varieties have been cultivated to improve qualities like drought tolerance, shade resistance, and overall aesthetic appeal. Sir Walter buffalo grass, a newer variety, is an excellent example of these innovations. It has set a new standard for buffalo lawns, offering superior durability while maintaining a soft, lush texture.

Benefits of choosing buffalo grass

Choosing buffalo grass for your lawn offers a variety of advantages, especially if you're looking for a hardy, attractive, and easy-to-maintain turf. Here are some of the key benefits of buffalo grasses:

Drought tolerance 

Buffalo grass is highly drought-resistant, meaning it can survive with minimal water during dry seasons, making it an environmentally friendly choice for water-conscious homeowners.

Shade tolerance

Unlike many warm-season grasses, buffalo grass types, such as Sir Walter buffalo turf, perform exceptionally well in shaded areas, making them ideal for properties with trees or structures that block sunlight.

Low maintenance

Buffalo grass varieties require less mowing and fertilising compared to other turf types. With the right care, a buffalo grass lawn can stay green and lush with minimal effort.

Soft leaf texture

Modern varieties like palmetto soft-leaf buffalo and Sir Walter buffalo grass have a fine, soft leaf texture, making your lawn comfortable to walk or play on.

Pest and disease resistance

Buffalo grass is naturally resistant to many common lawn pests and diseases, reducing the need for chemical treatments and keeping your lawn healthy year-round.

Sir Walter DNA Certified: A new type of buffalo grass

One of the most notable developments in the world of buffalo grass is the introduction of Sir Walter DNA Certified buffalo grass. This variety is the result of extensive research and breeding to create a high-performing lawn solution that thrives in the diverse Australian climate.

Sir Walter buffalo grass is known for its superior shade tolerance, drought resistance, and ability to maintain its rich green colour even during the hot summer months. It has become the best-selling turf variety in Australia, with thousands of homeowners opting for its lush appearance and durability. Sir Walter buffalo lawns are easy to maintain and have become synonymous with quality in the buffalo grass world.

This buffalo grass variety is not only aesthetically pleasing but also offers practical benefits such as lower water consumption and fewer requirements for fertilisers or herbicides. If you're looking for the best type of buffalo grass, Sir Walter DNA Certified buffalo is an excellent option for most 

Australian properties.

Installation: benefits and best time to do it

Installing buffalo grass can transform your lawn into a lush, green space that remains resilient throughout the seasons. The benefits of installing buffalo grass include quick establishment, low maintenance needs, and the ability to handle a wide range of conditions, including drought and shade.

The best time to install buffalo grass is during the warmer months when the grass can quickly establish itself. Late spring and early summer are ideal as the warmer weather helps buffalo lawns take root and grow vigorously before the cooler winter months set in. Buffalo turf can also be installed during autumn, but avoid winter installation as the grass will take longer to establish in cooler conditions.

Maintenance for buffalo grass

Buffalo grass maintenance is relatively simple, making it a favourite among homeowners. To keep your buffalo grass lawn healthy and looking its best, follow these key maintenance tips:

• Mowing: Buffalo grass should be mowed every 7–10 days during the growing season. Keep the grass blades around 50–60mm in height for optimal health. During winter, mowing can be reduced to every 3–4 weeks.
• Watering: Buffalo grass does not require much watering once it is established. Instead, water it only when there are signs of the grass drying out. 
• Fertilising: For a lush, green colour, fertilise your buffalo lawn twice a year, once in early spring and once in autumn. A slow-release lawn fertiliser is ideal for promoting healthy growth.
• Weed Control: Buffalo grass is naturally resistant to many weeds, but if necessary, use a herbicide specifically formulated for buffalo grass varieties to avoid damaging your lawn.

Different types of buffalo grass

There are several buffalo grass varieties to choose from, each offering unique benefits depending on your specific lawn needs. Some of the most popular buffalo grass types include:

• Sir Walter DNA Certified: As mentioned, this is one of the leading buffalo turf varieties in Australia, known for its exceptional drought tolerant nature and ability to thrive in shaded areas. It’s an excellent all-around grass for most Australian climates.
• Palmetto Soft Leaf Buffalo: This variety is known for its softer texture and low maintenance needs. It performs well in both sunny and shaded areas and requires less mowing compared to other warm-season grasses.
• Matilda Buffalo: Matilda buffalo grass is another soft-leaf variety that boasts a fine texture and excellent wear tolerance, making it ideal for high-traffic areas like backyards with children or pets.
• Shademaster Buffalo: As the name suggests, Shademaster buffalo grass offers superior shade tolerance while still maintaining a vibrant green colour. It’s perfect for areas that don’t receive full sunlight.

Find the best buffalo grass for your lawn at Lilydale Instant Lawn 

Buffalo grass is a fantastic option for those looking to create a beautiful, low-maintenance lawn that thrives in various conditions. From drought tolerance to its shade-loving capabilities, buffalo varieties like Sir Walter offer a range of benefits that make them well-suited to the Australian climate.

By choosing the right buffalo grass variety and providing the proper care and maintenance, you can enjoy a lush, green lawn year-round. With its resilience and aesthetic appeal, buffalo grass is truly one of the best options for homeowners looking for a warm-season grass that ticks all the boxes. For more information on our turf varieties, contact us today.