Florida Bahia Lawn Care

Overview

Bahia grass is popular in Florida because of its low maintenance requirements and durability. Bahia grass grows well in infertile soils and is fairly drought-tolerant, so it can thrive in all Florida regions. Despite its overall low maintenance, you will need to mow your Bahia lawn a little more frequently than some other types of grasses. Bahia grass develops unattractive seed heads as it grows, making it necessary to mow more often. Also, you'll need a mower with a heavy-duty blade, because Bahia grass is thicker and tougher to cut than most other grasses.

Step 1

Feed your lawn about two weeks after the grass begins to grow again in the spring with a nitrogen-based fertilizer. Use a 16-4-8 NPK (Nitrogen--Phosphorous--Potassium) fertilizer. If you live in South Florida, fertilize in February; if you live in North or Central Florida, fertilize in March.

Step 2

Feed your Bahia lawn again in early autumn with a 16-4-8 NPK fertilizer. This feeding is optional, but you should apply the autumn feeding if your Bahia grass is newly planted. Fertilize in August if you live in North Florida, September in Central Florida or October in South Florida.

Step 3

Mow your Bahia lawn every five to seven days during the growing season. From early May to late August, mow the Bahia grass to a height of 2 to 3 inches.

Step 4

Water your Bahia lawn two or three times per week during drought or dry conditions. Water the grass daily when it is first planted and establishing itself. Apply 3/4 to 1 inch of water during each watering to ensure that the top 8 inches of soil is moistened thoroughly. Bahia lawns in South Florida usually require more watering than those in Central or North Florida.

Step 5

Inspect your Bahia lawn for mole crickets, which can damage the grass roots. Look for tunnels and mounds in the soil if your Bahia grass begins to wilt and you suspect mole crickets. Use an insecticide made specifically for mole crickets and follow the directions on the label exactly.