How to Stop Bermuda Grass in a St. Augustine Lawn
A lush, healthy St. Augustine lawn is a source of pride for many homeowners in Florida and other warm-season regions. Known for its thick, carpet-like appearance and ability to thrive in both sun and partial shade, St. Augustine grass is a top choice for lawns. However, one of the most common challenges for maintaining a St. Augustine lawn is controlling the spread of Bermuda grass. With its aggressive growth habits, Bermuda grass can quickly invade and overtake a St. Augustine lawn if left unchecked.
In this blog, we’ll explore effective strategies to stop Bermuda grass in a St. Augustine lawn, helping you keep your yard healthy, green, and looking its best.
Why Is Bermuda Grass a Problem for St. Augustine Lawns?
Bermuda grass is a tough, drought-resistant grass that spreads aggressively through stolons (above-ground runners) and rhizomes (underground runners). Its rapid growth and dense root system allow it to quickly invade and choke out other grass types, including St. Augustine. This can lead to a patchy, uneven lawn with both grasses competing for nutrients, sunlight, and water.
The challenge with Bermuda grass is that it is highly tolerant of mowing, thrives in full sun, and can regenerate quickly, even after being damaged. It can be difficult to control without harming your desirable St. Augustine grass. However, with the right approach and persistence, it is possible to manage Bermuda grass and maintain a healthy St. Augustine lawn.
Strategies to Stop Bermuda Grass in a St. Augustine Lawn
- Maintain Proper Lawn Care Practices for St. AugustineThe first step in controlling Bermuda grass is to promote the health of your St. Augustine lawn. A dense and healthy St. Augustine lawn is more resistant to invasions by Bermuda grass and other weeds. Here are some key lawn care practices:
- Mowing Height: Mow your St. Augustine grass at the recommended height of 3.5 to 4 inches. Bermuda grass thrives when mowed short (around 1-2 inches), so maintaining a higher mowing height favors St. Augustine and shades out the Bermuda grass.
- Watering: St. Augustine grass prefers less frequent, deep watering. Water your lawn about 1 inch per week, encouraging deep root growth. Bermuda grass, on the other hand, can survive on minimal water. Proper watering practices will strengthen St. Augustine and make it harder for Bermuda to compete.
- Fertilization: Use a slow-release fertilizer specifically formulated for St. Augustine grass. Over-fertilizing with high-nitrogen fertilizers can inadvertently promote Bermuda grass growth. Aim for balanced nutrition that supports St. Augustine’s needs.
- Hand Pulling and Spot TreatmentFor smaller infestations, hand-pulling Bermuda grass can be an effective way to control it. This method works best when the soil is moist, making it easier to pull the entire plant, including the roots. While this can be labor-intensive, it prevents the Bermuda grass from spreading further by removing the entire plant.Additionally, consider using spot treatments with herbicides that target Bermuda grass without harming St. Augustine. Glyphosate-based products can be effective, but be cautious, as they can also harm desirable grass if applied incorrectly. Always read the label and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Use Selective HerbicidesWhen Bermuda grass has invaded larger areas, a more targeted approach is required. Selective herbicides are designed to kill specific types of grass without damaging others. The use of selective herbicides, like Fusilade II, is recommended for controlling Bermuda grass in St. Augustine lawns. Fusilade II is a post-emergent herbicide that targets grassy weeds like Bermuda grass while being safe for St. Augustine when applied correctly.
- Application Timing: For the best results, apply the herbicide when Bermuda grass is actively growing, usually in late spring to early summer. Multiple applications may be needed to control the infestation effectively.
- Follow Instructions Carefully: Ensure you read the product label and follow all safety instructions, as improper use can damage your lawn.
- SolarizationSolarization is a non-chemical method that uses the sun’s heat to kill Bermuda grass and its seeds. This method involves covering the affected area with a clear plastic tarp for 4-6 weeks during the hottest months. The heat trapped under the plastic effectively kills the Bermuda grass and prevents it from regrowing. However, solarization also kills other vegetation in the area, so it may be more suitable for small sections that you plan to reseed or re-sod with St. Augustine.
- Mulching and EdgingEdging your lawn with physical barriers can help prevent the spread of Bermuda grass from adjacent areas. Regularly edge along garden beds, sidewalks, and driveways to stop Bermuda grass runners from encroaching on your lawn.Mulching can also help suppress Bermuda grass growth in flower beds and other non-lawn areas. A thick layer of mulch blocks sunlight, making it harder for Bermuda grass to establish.
- Overseeding with St. Augustine PlugsIf Bermuda grass has created bare patches in your St. Augustine lawn, consider overseeding with St. Augustine plugs or sod. This will help fill in the gaps and create a dense lawn that can better compete against Bermuda grass. Make sure to properly water and fertilize the newly planted plugs to encourage quick establishment.
Ongoing Management and Prevention
Stopping Bermuda grass in a St. Augustine lawn is not a one-time task—it requires ongoing effort. Regular lawn maintenance, proper fertilization, and vigilant monitoring for signs of Bermuda grass encroachment are crucial for long-term success. Here are some additional tips for ongoing management:
- Regular Inspections: Frequently inspect your lawn for any signs of Bermuda grass re-emergence and address it early before it spreads.
- Proper Irrigation Management: Avoid overwatering or underwatering. Consistent, deep watering is ideal for St. Augustine grass and discourages Bermuda growth.
- Aeration and Soil Health: Periodic aeration helps maintain healthy soil conditions that favor St. Augustine grass. Healthy soil supports deep roots and reduces the chances of Bermuda grass taking over.
Bermuda grass can be a challenging invader in a St. Augustine lawn, but with the right strategies and persistence, it is possible to control its spread and maintain a beautiful, healthy lawn. From proper mowing and watering practices to targeted herbicide applications and manual removal, there are various approaches to suit different levels of infestation and lawn care preferences.
At Hudson Ranch Sod, we are committed to helping you achieve a thriving and beautiful lawn. If you need more advice on managing your lawn or are looking for high-quality St. Augustine sod or plugs, visit our website or contact us today for expert guidance and support. Let’s work together to keep your lawn green, healthy, and free of unwanted invaders!
To learn more about sustainable sod practices and how Hudson Ranch Sod can support your agricultural or landscaping needs, visit our website. We’re committed to promoting healthy, sustainable, and beautiful green spaces for everyone.