Buffalo Lawn Seed Blend

Detailed Description

McKays Buffalo Blend contains one of the very few drought-tolerant North American Buffalo grasses suitable for lawn use in Australia. Unlike the broadleaf turf varieties commonly known as “Buffalo” in Australia, this blend offers a fine, medium-dark green leaf. It combines Buffalo grass with Sports Turf Perennial Ryegrass and McKays Slow Release Fertiliser to provide a lush, low-maintenance lawn.

The blend thrives in warmer climates, remaining greenest during summer. While Buffalo grass goes dormant in winter, the Perennial Ryegrass maintains a green lawn, providing protection during dormancy. Highly durable, Buffalo grass can self-repair from heavy use, but it is less suitable for high traffic when dormant.

Sowing Tips

Prefers full sun and clay soil but will grow in sandy loam. Well-drained soil is required. Ensure at least 6-8 hours of sunlight per day. Broadcast the seed at or very near the soil surface and incorporate lightly with raking. Use an appropriate seed spreader for even coverage. Maintain damp soil throughout the germination period and ensure adequate water supply until fully established.

Optimal pH

Between 5.0-7.8

Optimal Planting Time

Recommended to sow in Spring and Autumn, climate dependent. In cooler areas like Victoria, plant around October/November when temperatures consistently exceed 25°C.

Germination

Approximately 28 days, climate and condition dependent.

Water

Keep the seed damp throughout germination. Once mature, it can survive on as little as 8cm of rainfall per month.

Fertilising

Will benefit from infrequent fertilising to produce optimal performance and a deep green color, though not essential.

First Mowing

Mow once roots are established, approximately 6-8 weeks post-germination.

Mowing Frequency

The Buffalo Blend requires low mowing. For a “naturalized” lawn, mow infrequently to create a rugged “meadow” appearance.

Mowing Tips

• Remove no more than 1/3 of the leaf per mow.
• The lower you mow it, the more often you need to mow.
• In shady areas, increase the mowing height.
• Mowing is the best form of weed control.

Disadvantages of Buffalo Blend

• Will go dormant with the first frost and brown off; color returns after soil warms for 2 weeks.
• Not suitable for lawns with low snowfall and high winter foot traffic.
• Less suitable for high traffic with kids and dogs, especially when dormant.
• Takes time to establish from seed, may require overseeding and patience.
• Does not blend well with turf-type Buffalo grasses due to different leaf shapes.

Seed & Package Details

50% Buffalo (Bouteloua dactyloides), 40% Sports Turf Perennial Ryegrass, 10% Slow Release Fertiliser.

Independently Tested

85% Min Germination, 98% purity. A seed testing certificate is available upon request.

Ideal Usage

Lawns, Commercial Landscapes, Parks, Playgrounds, Golf Course Roughs.

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Have any questions? Feel free to contact us and we’ll help you out.