Grass Seeds Native to Texas

Identification

• Buffalo grass is a warm-season perennial that usually grows between 8 to 10 inches in height and is known for its curly blue-green blades. This grass, which quickly wears thin in high-traffic areas, is best used for low-maintenance areas where it will see little use.

Propagation

• Buffalo grass is grown by seeding or sod. Seeds chilled at 5 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit for six to eight weeks or treated chemically to break dormancy have a higher germination rate than untreated seeds. Treated seeds planted in May have a germination rate of seven to 10 days. Maximum germination of untreated seeds planted in fall will not be complete until the following spring.

Management

• Buffalo grass does not require a lot of maintenance, but it should be mowed to a height of 2 to 3 inches. Fertilizer is not absolutely necessary, but the grass does benefit from small amounts of nitrogen-based fertilizer. Applications should not exceed 2 pounds per 1,000 square feet each year.