Once established, water based on the turf variety and weather:
Buffalo grasses (Palmetto, Sir Walter, Sapphire): 25mm per week, less in cooler months.
Empire Zoysia and Defender Hybrid Bermuda: 15–20mm per week, thanks to their drought tolerance.
QLD Green Couch: 20mm per week, more in peak summer.
Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth.
Mowing:
Mow regularly to maintain the ideal height:
Buffalo grasses: 30–50mm (Palmetto, Sir Walter, Sapphire).
Empire Zoysia: 25–40mm.
QLD Green Couch and Defender Hybrid Bermuda: 15–35mm.
Empire Zoysia requires 30% less mowing than buffalo, while QLD Green Couch benefits from more frequent cuts to stay sharp.
Fertilizing:
Fertilize every 6–8 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a slow-release lawn fertilizer (e.g., NPK 20-0-10). Avoid fertilizing in winter when growth slows.
For buffalo grasses, use a fertilizer low in phosphorus to prevent thatch buildup.
Weed and Pest Management:
Monitor for pests like lawn grubs or armyworms, especially in warm, humid conditions. Use eco-friendly treatments if needed, following product guidelines.
Varieties like Empire Zoysia and Defender Hybrid Bermuda are pest-resistant, but regular checks are still wise.
Aeration and Dethatching:
Aerate high-traffic areas (e.g., with Defender Hybrid Bermuda) annually to prevent soil compaction. Use a garden fork or hire a core aerator.
Dethatch buffalo grasses like Palmetto or Sir Walter every 1–2 years if thatch exceeds 10mm, as they can build up over time.
