Bahia

Bahia grass is a resilient turf option that thrives where other grasses may struggle. Known for developing a deep, widespread root system, Bahia performs well in sandy or low-nutrient soils, making it a smart choice for Florida landscapes with minimal upkeep.

This variety requires less water and fertilizer compared to other turf types, thanks to its natural drought tolerance. During extended dry periods, Bahia may go dormant and turn brown, but it quickly greens up once conditions improve. It also produces very little thatch and prefers slightly acidic soils, a pH around 5.5 is ideal.

While Bahia can be started from seed, it’s a slow and labor-intensive process. That’s why sod is the better choice, it establishes faster and with fewer complications.

To maintain a clean appearance, frequent mowing is essential, especially during the growing season. Without it, Bahia will grow tall and produce coarse seed heads that can detract from the lawn's appearance.

Bahia is generally low in pest issues, but it can be susceptible to mole crickets. It grows best in full sun and doesn’t perform well in shaded areas, high-salt environments, or locations with heavy foot traffic.

Why Choose It:

Fertilization Guidelines

Keeping your Bahia lawn healthy begins with proper fertilization. A consistent fertilizing schedule helps strengthen the grass and makes it more resistant to weeds, pests, and disease.

Start fertilizing in early April, once your lawn begins to green up.
In Central Florida, three fertilizations per year, spring through fall, are typically enough for Bahia.
Avoid applying nitrogen too early or too late in the year. Fertilizing during cold snaps or slowed growth periods can weaken the grass and increase its risk of frost damage or stress.

Mowing Recommendations

Bahia should be mowed regularly during the growing season to maintain its best look and performance.

Mow every 10 to 12 days during warm months.
Maintain a height of 3.5 inches to encourage a strong root system, improve drought resistance, and reduce susceptibility to insects and disease.
Never cut more than one-third of the grass blade height at once to prevent unnecessary stress.

Watering Practices

Once Bahia is established, it can handle extended dry periods better than many other turf grasses. It will go dormant and turn brown during drought, but it bounces back quickly with proper watering.

Water only when needed. Signs include grass blades wilting, folding, or turning bluish-gray.
Footprints that linger in the grass are also a sign it’s time to water.
When irrigating, apply ½ to ¾ inch of water per session to ensure deep root absorption.
During drought conditions, do not mow, fertilize, or apply pesticides. Let the grass rest until rainfall or irrigation returns.
Avoid overwatering, as it can weaken your turf and lead to weed issues.

Bahia

Why Choose It: Fertilization Guidelines Keeping your Bahia lawn healthy begins with proper fertilization. A consistent fertilizing schedule helps strengthen the grass and makes it more resistant to weeds, pests, and disease.

Start fertilizing in early April, once your lawn begins to green up.

In Central Florida, three fertilizations per year, spring through fall, are typically enough for Bahia.

Avoid applying nitrogen too early or too late in the year. Fertilizing during cold snaps or slowed growth periods can weaken the grass and increase its risk of frost damage or stress.

Mowing Recommendations Bahia should be mowed regularly during the growing season to maintain its best look and performance.

Mow every 10 to 12 days during warm months.

Maintain a height of 3.5 inches to encourage a strong root system, improve drought resistance, and reduce susceptibility to insects and disease.

Never cut more than one-third of the grass blade height at once to prevent unnecessary stress.

Watering Practices Once Bahia is established, it can handle extended dry periods better than many other turf grasses. It will go dormant and turn brown during drought, but it bounces back quickly with proper watering.

Water only when needed. Signs include grass blades wilting, folding, or turning bluish-gray.

Footprints that linger in the grass are also a sign it’s time to water.

When irrigating, apply ½ to ¾ inch of water per session to ensure deep root absorption.

During drought conditions, do not mow, fertilize, or apply pesticides. Let the grass rest until rainfall or irrigation returns.

Avoid overwatering, as it can weaken your turf and lead to weed issues.

Why Choose It:

Fertilization Guidelines

Keeping your Bahia lawn healthy begins with proper fertilization. A consistent fertilizing schedule helps strengthen the grass and makes it more resistant to weeds, pests, and disease.

Mowing Recommendations

Bahia should be mowed regularly during the growing season to maintain its best look and performance.

Watering Practices

Once Bahia is established, it can handle extended dry periods better than many other turf grasses. It will go dormant and turn brown during drought, but it bounces back quickly with proper watering.