Uses
Bermudagrass can be used for home lawns, commercial sites, parks/recreation sites, erosion control and is the primary grass used for golf course and athletic field turf. Bermudagrass can be used alone but is commonly used in conjunction with other warm season and cool season species as part of erosion control mixes.
Description
Bermudagrass, Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers., is a highly variable, sod forming, warm season turfgrass that spreads by stolons and rhizomes. Growing best in full sun, Bermudagrass is adapted to a wide range of soil conditions. Bermudagrass is both persistent and aggressive with excellent heat, drought and wear tolerance. It has medium to fine leaf texture with a light to medium green color, depending on the variety. There are several improved seeded varieties currently available with dark green color, fine leaf texture and high density. Major improvements in cold tolerance allow new varieties to be grown further north.
Adaptation and Distribution
Bermudagrass is adapted throughout the southern and transition zones of the United States. However, recent advances have resulted in new varieties with improved cold tolerance which allows it to be grown further north.
Establishment
- Adjust soil pH to 6.5-8.0 (for optimum performance and persistence)
- Use herbicides if necessary. Follow label directions and precautions.
- Soil type: Prefers fertile, well-drained soils but does have a wide range of soil adaptability
- Fertilizer: Refer to soil test, responds well to N
- Seed bed: Prepare a fine, granular and firm seed bed to ensure good seed to soil contact
- Seeding rate:
New Lawn: 2-3 lbs./ 1000 square feet
Overseeding Existing Lawn: 0.5-1 lbs. / 1000 square feet - Seeding dates: Spring/summer
- Seeding depth: ½ – ¼ inch
Management
- Mowing height: 1-2 inches (lower heights under high maintenance)
- Fertility: 0.5-1.5 lbs. N/1000 square feet/month (during growing season)
- Irrigation: Irrigation may be necessary during periods of extended drought
- Weed control: Apply pre and post emergent herbicides at labeled rates for weed control
- Disease control: Apply fungicides at labeled rates to control disease
- Insect control: Apply insecticides at labeled rates to control insects