What To Know
- If you’re looking for a sustainable and beautiful lawn alternative, learning how to plant buffalo runners is an excellent starting point.
- Plant the plugs or sprigs so that the crown (where the leaves meet the roots) is level with the soil surface.
- Mow your buffalo runner lawn regularly, keeping the blades sharp and set to a height of 2-3 inches.
Buffalo runners, also known as buffalo grass, are a resilient and low-maintenance lawn option that thrives in hot, dry climates. They are known for their deep root systems, drought tolerance, and ability to withstand heavy foot traffic. If you’re looking for a sustainable and beautiful lawn alternative, learning how to plant buffalo runners is an excellent starting point.
Understanding Buffalo Runners: A Closer Look
Before diving into the planting process, it’s crucial to understand the unique characteristics of buffalo runners. These grasses are warm-season perennials, meaning they flourish during the warmer months and go dormant during winter. They spread through stolons (above-ground stems) and rhizomes (underground stems), creating a dense, robust lawn.
Preparing the Soil: The Foundation for Success
The success of your buffalo runner lawn hinges on proper soil preparation. Start by testing your soil’s pH level. Buffalo runners prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil, with an ideal pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. If your soil is too acidic, you can adjust it by adding lime.
Next, remove any existing vegetation and debris from the planting area. This includes weeds, grass, and rocks. You can achieve this using a tiller or by hand-removing the vegetation. Once the area is clear, loosen the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches. This will allow the buffalo runner roots to establish themselves easily.
Choosing the Right Buffalo Runner Variety
With numerous buffalo runner varieties available, selecting the right one for your region and climate is essential. Consider factors like:
- Cold Hardiness: Some varieties are more tolerant of cold temperatures than others.
- Growth Habit: Different varieties have varying growth rates and spreading abilities.
- Disease Resistance: Choose varieties known for their resistance to common lawn diseases.
- Traffic Tolerance: If you expect heavy foot traffic, select a variety known for its durability.
Consult with local nurseries or landscape professionals for recommendations on the best buffalo runner variety for your specific needs.
Planting Buffalo Runners: A Step-by-Step Guide
Once you’ve prepared your soil and chosen the right variety, you’re ready to plant your buffalo runners. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Spacing: Plant your buffalo runner plugs or sprigs 12-18 inches apart. This allows for adequate space for the stolons to spread and create a dense lawn.
2. Depth: Plant the plugs or sprigs so that the crown (where the leaves meet the roots) is level with the soil surface.
3. Watering: Water the newly planted buffalo runners thoroughly after planting.
4. Mowing: Once the buffalo runners have established themselves, mow them regularly to encourage growth and prevent them from becoming too tall.
5. Fertilizing: Buffalo runners have low fertility needs. However, you can fertilize them once or twice a year with a slow-release fertilizer specifically formulated for warm-season grasses.
Caring for Your Buffalo Runner Lawn: Maintaining its Health
After planting, regular maintenance is key to keeping your buffalo runner lawn healthy and thriving. Here are some essential care tips:
- Watering: Buffalo runners are drought-tolerant, but they do require regular watering, especially during the establishment phase. Water deeply and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
- Mowing: Mow your buffalo runner lawn regularly, keeping the blades sharp and set to a height of 2-3 inches. This will prevent the grass from becoming too long and encourage healthy growth.
- Fertilizing: Apply a slow-release fertilizer specifically designed for warm-season grasses once or twice a year. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can lead to excessive growth and weaken the grass.
- Weed Control: Buffalo runners are naturally resistant to many weeds. However, you may need to manually remove any weeds that do appear.
- Disease Control: Buffalo runners are generally resistant to disease, but it’s important to monitor your lawn for any signs of disease and take appropriate action if necessary.
The Benefits of Buffalo Runners: A Green Revolution
Choosing buffalo runners for your lawn offers numerous benefits:
- Drought Tolerance: Their deep root systems allow them to access water deep within the soil, making them highly drought-tolerant.
- Low Maintenance: Buffalo runners require less watering, mowing, and fertilizing than traditional turf grasses.
- Disease Resistance: They are naturally resistant to many common lawn diseases.
- Traffic Tolerance: Their dense root systems make them highly resistant to foot traffic, making them ideal for high-traffic areas.
- Sustainability: Buffalo runners are a sustainable option, requiring less water and chemicals than traditional turf grasses.
A New Beginning: The Future of Your Lawn
Planting buffalo runners is a rewarding experience that offers a sustainable and beautiful alternative to traditional turf grasses. By following these steps and implementing proper care practices, you can create a lush, green lawn that will thrive for years to come.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: How long does it take for buffalo runners to establish themselves?
A: It typically takes buffalo runners 6-8 weeks to establish themselves after planting.
Q: Can I plant buffalo runners in shady areas?
A: Buffalo runners thrive in full sun. While they can tolerate some shade, they will not grow as vigorously in shady areas.
Q: How do I control weeds in my buffalo runner lawn?
A: Buffalo runners are naturally resistant to many weeds. However, you can control weeds manually by pulling them out or using a selective herbicide specifically designed for warm-season grasses.
Q: Can I overseed my existing lawn with buffalo runners?
A: It’s generally not recommended to overseed existing lawns with buffalo runners. Buffalo runners spread aggressively and can overtake other grasses.
Q: When is the best time to plant buffalo runners?
A: The best time to plant buffalo runners is during the spring or early summer when the soil is warm and the weather is favorable for growth.
