A popular choice for homeowners and business owners for a lush and resilient lawn is Bermuda grass. With its ability to withstand heat, drought, and moderate to heavy foot traffic, Bermuda grass is a quality ground cover whether used alone or mixed with other grass seed types. The Kingsport landscaping professionals at Promier Landscapes share tips on caring for Bermuda grass so that you know the secrets to the ideal growing conditions of this warm-season grass.
Bermuda grass care basics
Bermuda grass originates in Africa and India introduced to North America through the country of Bermuda. Often used in tropical and sub-tropical climates such as coastal regions and the southern United States, Bermuda grass thrives with warmth and sunlight. With its long root system, the ability to grow in most soil conditions, and quick recovery timeframe, Bermuda grass is a choice turf recommended by Johnson City landscaping experts for golf courses, sports fields, and your personal landscape.
Bermuda grass pros and cons
Deciding on the best grass for your property can be challenging, with multiple options available from which to choose. Keep in mind the aesthetics and maintenance needs as you navigate the decision-making process. Most importantly, review the pros and cons below and discuss available options with an experienced landscaping company in Bristol for the best choice.
Pros
- Resilient – Bermuda grass embodies the perfect strength for high-traffic areas, resulting in minor wear and tear.
- Easy to Grow – With optimum light conditions and a suitable climate, Bermuda grass should easily flourish.
- Heat and Drought Tolerant –Tolerating harsh weather conditions such as intense heat and drought is a characteristic of Bermuda grass. However, to maintain its health, it requires watering weekly.
Cons
- Aggressive – Additional maintenance may be necessary to keep Bermuda grass out of flower beds, gardens, or adjoining properties as it aggressively spreads through your property.
- Cold Intolerant – The warmer the climate, the more Bermuda grass should flourish. Once cold, the lush green grass fades to a straw-like consistency within a few days.
- Shade Intolerant – Bermuda grass requires a minimum of six hours of continuous sunlight per day. Therefore, shaded areas beneath trees or near buildings could reflect sparse growth with little to no sunlight.
Bermuda grass care
Bermuda grass care is possible in five simple steps for a lush green lawn. The Kingsport lawncare company outlined each step below.
- Mow your lawn at spring’s start once the grass is green with a sharp blade maintaining a height between one-half and two-and-a-half inches, making sure you do not cut more than one-third of the grass blade.
- Irrigating your Bermuda grass should only happen as needed. When watering, saturate the soil six inches in depth once a week.
- Aerating your lawn is best in early summer before applying fertilizer. By aerating first, the fertilizer can reach more profoundly to the grassroots and boost growth.
- Fertilize your lawn with nitrogen fertilizer following the instructions on the packaging or apply one-half to one pound of fertilizer per every thousand square feet of grass area.
- Weeds are manageable with pre-emergent herbicides for spring and summer weeds and a post-emergence application for broadleaf weeds. However, do not exceed two to three applications per year.
Landscaping in Kingsport, Johnson City, and Bristol, Tennessee
Characteristics of various grass types can help you determine the best kind of lawn for your home. Depending on the layout of your property, Promier Landscapes can help you decide which type of grass is best for Kingsport homeowners. Additionally, we can help you maintain a beautiful property year-round. Contact our office today by calling (423) 872-2988 to speak with a lawn care expert and get your questions answered or schedule a maintenance appointment.