How to Scalp Bermuda Grass in Gardening

Set your lawnmower low to scalp Bermuda grass.

Bermuda grass is a warm-season turf grass grown widely in the southern portion of the United States. General mowing guidelines suggest maintaining Bermuda grass at a height of 1 to 1 1/2 inches. Scalping the grass means removing more than one-third of its height. In regular maintenance care, scalping stresses the grass and is not recommended. Scalping Bermuda grass proves necessary under certain circumstances however, such as in the case of a Bermuda grass mite infestation or when removing thatch during the lawn renovation process.

Things You'll Need

• Mower

Instructions

1. Set your mower to the lowest height setting to remove as much grass leaf as possible.

2. Mow the lawn as usual, at the lower setting. Throw away all grass cuttings, especially if performing scalping as an insect control method. Infested grass clippings include insects and eggs that infest the yard again if not properly removed.

3. Water as required, with the need dictated by the reason for scalping. Reduce watering from previous levels to 1 inch per week if you are scalping to reduce thatch, as excess moisture increases thatch buildup. Bermuda grass scalped to control pests such as mites needs daily watering for at least three days afterward to minimize plant stress.

Tips & Warnings

• Contact a lawn care professional or your local County Extension Office for advice before scalping. Although scalping sometimes proves beneficial for Bermuda grass, the resulting stress severely damages the turf without proper care and maintenance.

References

• University of Florida Extension: Bermudagrass Mite
• University of Florida Extension: Renovation of Turf Areas
• Alabama Cooperative Extension System: Bermudagrass Lawns
• University of Florida Extension: Thatch and Its Control in Florida Lawns

Resources

• University of Arizona Cooperative Extension: Lawns: Maintenance