When to Plant Argentine Bahia Grass in Florida
Bahia grass is low-maintenance, vigorous, perennial grass that grows in all parts of Florida. The Argentine Bahia grass cultivar, with its dark green color and wide leaf blade, is appropriate for residential use. For best results, plant Argentine Bahia grass during spring months. Does this Spark an idea?
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Time Frame
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New Argentine Bahia seed or sod requires plenty of water to encourage proper growth and quick root establishment. Plant seed or sod before the summer rainy season. The heat and rain of the summer months will encourage fast establishment. Avoid planting during the winter. Cold weather slows growth and sudden cold frosts may damage new grass.
Establishment Methods
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Argentine Bahia grass seed is readily available and significantly less expensive than sod. However, seed establishment is also much more time-consuming. Purchase at least 15 lbs. of live seed per acre. In general, the more seed, the faster the establishment. Sod provides immediate erosion control and produces the look of an instant lawn. Sprigs or plugs are not recommended for establishing Argentine Bahia grass.
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Grass Preparation
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Adequately prepare the soil before planting new grass. Remove all weeds and rocks and level the soil. Obtain a soil analysis, and add any deficient nutrients to the soil. Put down a thin, 4- to 6-inch layer of planting soil. Proper site preparation is a critical part of planting a lawn.
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References
- University of Florida; Bahiagrass for Florida Lawns; L.E. Trenholm et al.; Aug. 2003
- Forages; Bahiagrass Utilization in East Texas; Larry A. Redmon; Dec. 2001
- "Landscape Plants for Subtropical Climates"; Bijan Dehgan; 1998
- University of Florida; Preparing to Plant a Florida Lawn; L.E. Trenholm, et al.; May 1991
