How to Plant Buffalo Grass

Seed is cheaper but takes 2 to 3 seasons to fill in. Plugs (small sod squares on 12 to 18 inch centers) fill in faster (1 to 2 seasons) but cost more and require more labor. For large areas, seed is practical. For small lawns or targeted areas, plugs provide faster results. Vegetative varieties (UC Verde, Prestige) are plugs/sod only.

Plant when soil temperature is above 60 degrees: late May to June in the Central Plains. Buffalo grass germinates in warm soil only. Planting too early (April in zone 5) results in poor germination. You need the full warm season ahead for establishment. Do not plant after early July.

Kill existing vegetation with glyphosate 2 weeks before planting. Till the top 2 to 3 inches and grade smooth. Buffalo grass prefers undisturbed soil with good structure, so avoid excessive tillage. Do not amend with compost or peat (buffalo grass wants lean, alkaline soil). A soil test confirming pH above 6.5 is ideal.

Use treated (decoated) seed: 3 to 5 lbs per 1,000 sq ft. Untreated bur seed has a hard shell that reduces germination. Broadcast in two perpendicular passes. Do not bury deeply: press into the surface with a roller or drag. Buffalo grass seed needs light for germination, so quarter-inch coverage maximum.

Keep the surface moist for 14 to 21 days. Light watering twice daily. After germination, reduce to every 2 to 3 days for 4 weeks, then transition to minimal watering. Buffalo grass seedlings are drought-adapted but do need consistent moisture during the germination window. After 6 weeks, stop supplemental watering unless in severe drought.

Buffalo grass fills in slowly. After the first season, expect 50 to 70% coverage from seed. By the end of the second season, 80 to 90%. Full, thick coverage by the third season. This is normal. Do not overseed with other species to 'fill in' faster because they will outcompete the buffalo grass. Weed control during establishment is critical.