In early spring,
[or late winter in southern locations] mow your buffalograss to a height
of 1 inch. This will remove the old grass debris and allow the sun to
warm the soil faster so your buffalograss will green up earlier. Since
you are helping the ground warm earlier than normal, you will need to
apply a pre-emergent or a fertilizer with crabgrass and/or annual grassy
weed control at this time. Any product available at your garden center
should be OK to use. Read and follow the label. Repeat this
application at a ½ rate in 6-8 weeks for season long control.
Summer
Your
buffalograss is actively growing at its best during the warm summer
months. This is the time to fertilize. Apply your first application
when the daytime temperatures are consistently in the 70’s. Always use
high quality slow release fertilizer. Water immediately after applying
to activate the fertilizer. Repeat application in 30-45 days. In
southern climates a third treatment can be beneficial 45 days after the
second. Any broad leaf weeds can be treated with a chemical
application. DO NOT use any product that contains 2 4-D during the hot
temperatures of the summer. This may stunt the grass but it should not
cause permanent damage. Water only if additional moisture is needed.
Mow to your desired height.
Fall
Fall maintenance
should be minimal. Water if needed. The late fall is an excellent
time to control any broadleaf weeds. During this cool weather any
broadleaf weed control may be used, including 2-4D products. You may
also control any unwanted perennial grasses or hard to kill broadleaf
weeds during the late fall. Once you have had 3 hard freezes with the
temperatures reaching the 20’s, it is safe to apply a non-selective
herbicide like Round-up® or other glysophate herbicide. This should
kill anything except your buffalograss. DO NOT apply before 3 hard
freezes.
Winter
RELAX!
