How to fix patchy Buffalo grass?

JillianCampbel

my buffalo grass is very patchy, I thought it was grass grub, but I have treated the grass and its still the same.

EricL

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us and thanks for sharing your question about your lawn.

Thank you for sharing the image and describing the issue with your buffalo grass. Since you’ve already treated for grass grubs and the problem persists, the patchiness may be caused by other factors such as fungal issues, compaction, or poor nutrition. Buffalo grass is hardy but can sometimes struggle if conditions aren’t ideal.

First, it’s worth checking if the soil beneath the affected areas is compacted. Compacted soil can prevent water and nutrients from reaching the roots, leading to patchiness. To address this, you could aerate the lawn with a garden fork or a manual lawn aerator, both of which are available at the store. This will improve airflow and water penetration, giving the grass a better chance to recover.

If compaction isn’t the issue, consider the possibility of a fungal disease. Products such as Yates Mancozeb Plus can be used to treat common lawn fungal problems. Apply as directed, and avoid overwatering, as excessive moisture can encourage fungal growth.

To help the grass recover and fill in the bare patches, top-dress the affected areas with lawn soil or a mix specifically designed for buffalo grass, available at the store. After top-dressing, apply a high-quality slow-release fertiliser suitable for buffalo lawns, such as Lawn Builder products, which will encourage healthy growth and help the grass recover. Ensure that you water the lawn deeply but less frequently to promote strong root development.

Finally, monitor the lawn for any signs of pests, disease, or other environmental stressors. Regular mowing at the correct height for buffalo grass and applying a soil wetting agent can also help maintain a healthy, even lawn. With a little care and attention, your buffalo grass should start to recover and regain its lush, green appearance.

Here are some handy step-by-step guides:

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric