How to Grow Big Sacaton

Overview

Big sacaton is a clumping grass, originally discovered in Texas, that grows in warm climates. When it grows wild, big sacaton can grow to reach heights of 8 feet tall. Big sacaton is also used as a groundcover in warm, dry areas that may not be able to grow more traditional grasses.

Step 1

Prepare the seedbed. The seedbed should be raked and tilled several weeks before planting. Rake over the area, removing any weeds, rocks or other inconsistencies from the ground.

Step 2

Plant big sacaton seeds in early spring. Using a grass drill and a small seed box, plant seeds 1/8 inch deep. Seeds are available through the E. "Kika" de la Garza Plant Materials Center in Kingsville, Texas (see Resources). Plant 1 lb. of seed per acre--there are approximately 2,000,000 seeds per pound of big sacaton. Mix the seeds with 1 part sand if you are having difficulty with seeds clumping.

Step 3

Water the area thoroughly. Although big sacaton grows best in warm climates and can tolerate both drought and wet soil, keep the soil moist until the grass matures.

Step 4

Leave big sacaton alone. Big sacaton is a hardy grass in most warm climates up to Zone 5 and does not require much additional care. It is a wild and naturally growing grass that does not require additional fertilizer, watering or maintenance.

Step 5

Mow big sacaton at least once per year, when it reaches roughly 18 inches. This will keep the grass healthy for years to come. Do not allow animals to graze on the sacaton grass until it is at least one year old.