Carpet Grass Seed

Detailed Description

Carpet Grass is a dense, thick grass with an aggressive, creeping growth pattern, making it highly suited for the tropical climates of Australia. This broad leaf, warm-season perennial is renowned for its low maintenance and ability to thrive in low fertility, acidic, or poor soils. It spreads through creeping stolons, creating a dense and firm sod, ideal for erosion control in difficult terrains.

While technically a warm-season grass, Carpet Grass can be grown in nearly all of Australia except for particularly cold regions like Tasmania, Canberra, and Victoria. It is the number one choice for tropical climates and can withstand up to 50% shade without adverse effects. Popular in Australian backyards, roadsides, and commercial landscapes, Carpet Grass requires minimal upkeep.

Optimal pH

Carpet Grass can tolerate acidic soils down to a pH of 4 and thrives between a pH of 5-6.

Sowing Tips

Broadcast the seed at or very near the soil surface and incorporate lightly with raking. To ensure best coverage and avoid seed wastage, use an appropriate seed spreader for the size of your area. Soil must remain damp throughout the germination period and be maintained for at least 1-2 weeks after sowing, through irrigation or natural rainfall. Post-planting, using a light roller may be advisable to assist in the retention of soil moisture and ensure good contact between the seed and soil. Carpet Grass performs best in full sun to slight shade.

Optimal Planting Time

Late Spring to Autumn.

Germination

Carpet Grass seeds develop relatively slowly, with germination expected within 14-28 days of sowing, depending on climate and conditions.

Water

Carpet Grass seed should be watered frequently with light applications to maintain soil moisture consistently until germination is complete. Ensure regular watering for 6-8 weeks until established. This variety is shallow-rooted, with 90% of roots penetrating only 0-5cm into the topsoil, resulting in low drought tolerance. Irrigation will be required on dry soils or during drought periods.

Fertilising

While CarpetGrass grows well in low fertility soils, it performs optimally if fertilised with McKays Slow Release Fertiliser at least once per year during the active growth phase. Applying lawn fertilizer will hasten establishment.

First Mowing

Mow once roots are established enough to withstand the mowing process.

Mowing Frequency

Carpet Grass sends up seed stalks that can give the lawn a weedy appearance. To prevent seed heads, mow every 5-7 days. If allowed to grow, the seed stalks are tough and hard to mow down.

Disadvantages of Carpet Grass

• It is not a high-quality, premium lawn grass but thrives in difficult areas where other grasses fail.
• It has a more sparse growth habit than most warm-season grasses.
• It is one of the first grasses to turn brown when temperatures become cool and the last variety to green up in Spring.

Seed & Package Details

100% Carpet Grass Seed. Please note that Carpet Grass Seed is usually coated to improve germination and protect the seeds to ensure the highest quality grass establishment.

Independently Tested

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

Ideal Usage

Suitable for gardens, parks, commercial landscapes, nature strips, and roadsides.

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