Getting your timing right is the first step to a thick, durable buffalo grass lawn in Kansas. This guide will tell you exactly when to plant buffalo grass in Kansas for the best results.
Buffalo grass is a perfect match for the Kansas climate. It’s a native, warm-season grass that thrives in heat and drought. Planting it at the correct time gives the roots a chance to establish before winter, ensuring your lawn comes back strong the next spring.
When to Plant Buffalo Grass in Kansas
The ideal window for planting buffalo grass in Kansas is from late spring into early summer. You’re aiming for a period when soil temperatures are consistently warm.
For most of the state, the prime planting time is from mid-May through late June. The goal is to get seed down or sod laid when the soil temperature at a 2-inch depth reaches 70°F and is rising. This warm soil is crucial for germination.
Planting too early in cool, wet spring soil will lead to poor germination and seed rot. Planting to late in the fall doesn’t give the young grass enough time to develop a deep root system before the first hard freeze. Missing the window means the grass may not survive its first winter.
Why This Timing Matters
Buffalo grass is a warm-season grass. It wakes up and grows actively in the heat. Planting during its natural growth cycle gives it the best start.
- Root Development: Warm soil encourages rapid root growth, helping seedlings anchor deeply to access water.
- Weed Competition: Planting in late spring/summer allows buffalo grass to establish before many cool-season weeds become active in fall.
- Drought Resistance: A well-established root system before winter makes the lawn much more resilient to Kansas’s dry summers the following year.
Signs That It’s Time to Plant
You don’t always need a soil thermometer. Watch for these natural cues:
- Daytime temperatures are regularly in the 70s and 80s°F.
- Nighttime temperatures stay above 60°F.
- Other warm-season plants, like crabgrass, begin to germinate.
Planting Methods and Timing Nuances
The best method for you can slightly affect your timing.
Planting from Seed
Seeding is the most common method. It requires the most precise timing within the spring/summer window. Seeds need sustained warmth and moisture to sprout. Aim for that mid-May to late June period. If you seed in early July, be prepared to water frequently to support germination during peak heat.
Laying Sod or Plugs
Sod and plugs give you a bit more flexibility because they already have established roots. You can successfuly lay buffalo grass sod from May through August, as long as you commit to thorough watering. Plugs, which are small pieces of sod, should be planted by mid-July at the latest to allow time for them to spread and fill in.
Step-by-Step Planting Guide
Once you’ve hit the right time, follow these steps.
- Test and Prepare Your Soil: A simple soil test from your local extension office is wise. Buffalo grass prefers a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Till the soil to a depth of 4-6 inches and rake it smooth, removing rocks and old roots.
- Choose Your Seed or Sod: Select a improved, turf-type buffalo grass variety like ‘Cody’, ‘Bowie’, or ‘Prestige’. These offer better density and color than common types.
- Plant:
- For seed: Spread at the rate recommended on the bag (usually 1.5-3 lbs per 1000 sq ft). Lightly rake to cover seeds no deeper than ¼ inch.
- For sod: Lay pieces tightly together on moist soil, staggering the joints like bricks.
- For plugs: Space them 12-18 inches apart in a grid pattern.
- Water Gently: Keep the top inch of soil consistently moist (not soggy) for 2-3 weeks until seeds germinate or sod/plugs show new growth. This may mean light watering twice a day for seed.
- First Mowing: Mow when the grass reaches about 3 inches tall, cutting no more than one-third of the blade height.
First-Year Care After Planting
Your work isn’t done after planting. First-year care is critical.
- Watering: After establishment, water deeply but infrequently to train roots to grow deep. Provide about 1 inch of water per week, including rainfall.
- Weeding: Hand-pull weeds as they appear. Avoid herbicides in the first year unless absolutely necessary, as young buffalo grass is sensitive.
- Fertilizing: Go light. A light application of a nitrogen fertilizer in late June or early July is usually sufficient. Over-fertilizing leads to thatch and weak growth.
- Winter: The grass will turn a golden tan after the first hard frost. This is normal dormancy. It will green up again in late spring.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Steer clear of these pitfalls for a better lawn.
- Planting Too Early: Impatience is the biggest enemy. Cold soil equals failure.
- Planting Too Deep: Buffalo grass seeds needs light to germinate. Don’t bury them.
- Overwatering Established Lawns: Once established, buffalo grass needs minimal water. Overwatering invites disease and weeds.
- Mowing Too Short: Never mow below 2.5 inches. A height of 3-4 inches is ideal for shading weeds and conserving soil moisture.
FAQs for Kansas Gardeners
Can I plant buffalo grass in the fall in Kansas?
It is not recommended. Fall planting rarely gives the grass enough time to develop the deep roots needed to survive winter freezing and thawing cycles. Spring/summer planting is much more reliable.
How long does buffalo grass seed take to germinate?
With warm soil (70°F+), buffalo grass seed typically germinates in 14-21 days. It can be slower than other grasses, so patience is key. Keep the seedbed moist during this period.
What’s the difference between buffalo grass and Bermuda grass for Kansas?
Both are warm-season grasses, but buffalo grass is native, uses less water, and requires less fertilizer. It also stays lower growing and won’t invade flower beds as aggressively. Bermuda grass tolerates heavier foot traffic but needs more inputs.
Does buffalo grass need full sun?
Yes, it performs best in full sun (at least 6-8 hours of direct light daily). It will thin out and struggle in heavily shaded areas, where a different grass type would be a better choice.
When will my new buffalo grass lawn fill in completely?
From seed, expect a full lawn by the end of the second growing season. Sod gives instant coverage. Plugs will take 2-3 growing seasons to completely spread and fill in the spaces between them, depending on watering and spacing.
Final Tips for Success
Remember, the secret is patience and timing. Wait for that soil to warm up in late spring. Prepare your seedbed properly, and commit to keeping it moist during germination. Once established, your buffalo grass lawn will reward you with a tough, low-maintenance turf that can handle Kansas summers with minimal water and care. Its a sustainable choice that fits the local environment perfectly. By following this guide, you’ll give your lawn the strongest possible start for years of enjoyment.