Today, we're diving headfirst into the delightful world of Bermudagrass. The grass of choice for builders here in the southeast. This grass is appropriately named since it's a strange place where my dreams of a luscious yard have just disappeared without a trace.
Bermudagrass is valued for its exceptional heat and drought tolerance and its capacity to withstand heavy use and recuperate quickly. My experience thus far is quite the opposite; I've struggled with getting the lawn established; it was SUPER patchy and difficult to get the weeds out of.
So..... I've spent much time watching and researching how to handle the lawn throughout the year. Here's my general outline for an annual care plan for lawns.
Spring (March to May):
Mow: Begin mowing when the grass reaches a height of about 2 inches. Set the mower at a height of 1 to 1.5 inches and mow regularly.
Fertilize: Follow the manufacturer's instructions to apply a balanced fertilizer specifically formulated for Bermuda grass in late spring. ( I'll do a post on fertilizer shortly)
Weed Control: Spot treat any weeds that have emerged using appropriate herbicides.
Aerate: Aerate the lawn to alleviate soil compaction and promote better nutrient and water absorption.
Summer (June to August):
Water: Water deeply and infrequently, providing around 1 inch of water per week, adjusting based on weather conditions.
Mow: Continue mowing regularly.
Monitor: Keep an eye out for pests, such as armyworms or grubs, and signs of diseases like brown patch. Take appropriate measures for prevention and treatment if necessary. (Post coming soon on this topic)
Fall (September to November):
Mow: Maintain regular mowing but gradually reduce the height to about 1 inch.
Fertilize: Apply a fall-specific fertilizer with higher potassium content to strengthen the grass roots for the coming winter.
Overseed (optional): If your Bermuda grass lawn experiences winter dormancy or if you desire a year-round green lawn, consider overseeding with a cool-season grass in early fall.
Winter (December to February):
Dormancy: Bermuda grass goes dormant during winter. Reduce or halt watering, as the grass requires less moisture.
Monitor: Keep an eye on the lawn for signs of disease or winter damage.
Prepare for spring: Plan any necessary lawn renovations or maintenance for the upcoming spring season.
Remember that these recommendations are general guidelines, and the specific timing of certain tasks may vary based on your location and climate.
Adjustments may be needed based on local conditions and the specific needs of your Bermuda grass lawn.
Comments