How to ensure Kikuyu lawn is lush and green?

[Murlun]

Hi all!

I have Kikuyu lawn, I mow it every 7-10 days over spring/summer, water it for about 30 mins every 4 days or so, have fertilized twice with granular fertilizer, once at the start of spring, and once a few days ago. In addition I have used a liquid fertilizer twice, inbetween the granular fertilizer.

No matter what I do, I can't seem to get that lush green look in the center of the lawn. It does get sun all day (Adelaide) in that area, and on the right side of the lawn, it has most sun, part shade.

At the start of Spring, I also got the entire lawn professional aerated, with a coring machine. 

Granular fertilizer: https://www.bunnings.com.au/scotts-lawn-builder-8kg-all-purpose-slow-release-lawn-fertiliser_p296204...

Liquid fertilizer: https://www.bunnings.com.au/scotts-lawn-builder-1l-extreme-green-liquid-lawn-fertiliser_p2961972 

The sprinkler I have is shown in the picture, it shoots water up in the air, and goes left to right. https://www.bunnings.com.au/gardena-aqua-s-oscillating-sprinkler_p0264494?store=5226&gad_source=1&gc.... I think it's this one

Any help would be appreciated!

[EricL]

Hello @Murlun 

Thanks for sharing your question about your Kikuyu lawn.

 It sounds like you’ve been putting a lot of effort into your Kikuyu lawn, and you’re definitely on the right track with fertilising, watering, and even aerating—those are all great steps. Since the centre of the lawn isn’t looking as lush green as you’d like, a couple of adjustments might make a difference.

With the warmer Adelaide weather and full sun exposure, the lawn could be drying out quicker in the centre, especially if the soil there is compacted or not holding moisture well. Adding a soil wetter like Scotts Lawn Builder Everydrop can help the water penetrate deeper and ensure the roots are getting enough hydration. 

This is particularly useful in areas that might be drying out faster due to sun exposure or uneven watering. You might also try increasing the watering duration slightly, as Kikuyu thrives on deep, less frequent watering—aiming for longer sessions rather than watering more often can help encourage deeper root growth.

Since you’ve fertilised well, it’s also worth checking the lawn height when mowing. Cutting the grass too short can stress Kikuyu, especially in sunny areas, so raising your mower height a notch or two will allow the grass to hold more moisture and look healthier. The Scotts Lawn Builder Extreme Green Liquid Fertiliser you’ve been using is excellent for quick results, but in very sunny spots, adding a little iron can enhance the deep green colour. A product like Yates Iron Chelate Liquid can give that extra boost without encouraging excessive growth.

Lastly, while your Gardena oscillating sprinkler is a great choice for even coverage, it’s a good idea to check that the water is soaking in evenly across the lawn. Sometimes high-sun areas need just a bit more water than the shadier parts. 

Combining all of these steps—ensuring good water penetration, adjusting mowing height, and adding a little iron—should help you get closer to that lush, green lawn you’re aiming for. Keep up the great work, and I’m sure you’ll see improvements soon.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric