Bermuda grass is popular in Austin because it’s low maintenance. It’s also easy to care for and looks good even during the summer and times of drought.

Types

Bermuda grass is usually divided into two categories: common and hybrid.  The common variety is grown from seed and used for erosion control, agriculture and some residential lawns. Hybrid Bermuda grass, on the other hand, is planted as sod rather than seed.  The major difference between these two types includes leaf width, color and susceptibility to disease and weeds.

Characteristics

Both common and hybrid Bermuda grass varieties grow best in full sun.  During the cooler weather seasons, they turn brown and go dormant. All Bermuda grasses have textures that range from medium to fine, are very hardy, salt tolerant and drought resistant.

Planting

The prime time for planting new Bermuda grass is late spring or early summer.  Although fall is only a month away, it’s wise not to plant during this time.  That’s because Bermuda grass needs stable nightly temperatures between 65 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit in tandem with the extreme heat of Texas summers to grow and get successfully established.

Watering

The beauty of mature Bermuda grass is that it can live on as little as half an inch of water a week.  Austin water restrictions allow for watering once a week: on the day you are allowed to water, remember to do it at dawn or dusk.  If you water in the heat of the day, the water will evaporate before it can replenish the Bermuda grass.

Mowing

Because it grows so quickly in the heat, Bermuda grass should be mowed once a week during the summer.  Always use a sharp mowing blade and set your mower cutter at a moderate level, as you do not want to cut it too short. Clippings left on the lawn can help the grass to retain more moisture and require less watering.  Never mow Bermuda grass when it is wet.

South Austin Irrigation specializes in irrigation system inspection, repair and replacement.  For the service and advice more Austinites trust, contact us!