If you’re considering re-turfing your lawn, you’ve probably come across the kikuyu vs buffalo grass debate. Both grasses have their benefits, but which one is right for you?
In this post, we’ll compare Kikuyu vs Buffalo grass in terms of looks, maintenance, and overall performance to help you make an informed decision.
Kikuyu vs Buffalo: Aesthetics (Look and Feel)
When it comes to appearance, Buffalo grass has a soft, lush look that gives your lawn a beautiful, green hue. It’s known for its fine texture and dark green colour, which looks great in both formal and casual settings.
Buffalo grass has been selectively cultivated to develop certain beneficial characteristics. If you want more information on this you read our earlier post detailing the types of buffalo grass.
On the other hand, Kikuyu grass is a bit more robust. Its bright green colour and coarse texture make it stand out. It tends to grow quickly, creating a dense carpet of grass that can handle heavy foot traffic.
Kikuyu vs Buffalo Grass: Sun/Shade Tolerance
Both grasses perform well in the sun, but Buffalo grass has the edge when it comes to shade. While it prefers full sunlight, it can tolerate some shade and still grow strong, making it a good option for lawns with trees or other shade-providing structures.
Kikuyu grass, however, thrives best in full sun. It can handle a bit of shade but doesn’t do as well as Buffalo when light levels drop.
Kikuyu vs Buffalo Grass: Water/Drought Tolerance
If you’re looking for a grass that can stand up to drought, Buffalo grass is the better choice. Once established, it’s highly water-efficient, meaning you won’t need to water it constantly to keep it looking healthy.
Kikuyu grass, while more drought-resistant than some other types, requires more water to stay lush and green. It’s perfect for areas that get a lot of rain but may need extra irrigation during dry spells.
Durability
When comparing Buffalo vs Kikuyu grass for durability, Kikuyu grass often wins. It’s tough and can handle a lot of wear and tear. Its aggressive growth helps it bounce back from damage faster.
Buffalo grass, while sturdy, isn’t as quick to recover. It holds up well under moderate traffic but needs a little more time to bounce back after heavy use.
Recovery from Damage
If your lawn is frequently damaged, whether from kids playing or pets running around, Kikuyu grass will recover faster. Its rapid growth helps it repair itself quickly.
Buffalo grass, however, takes longer to recover. It’s more suited to lawns that don’t get heavy use or for those who don’t mind a bit of time for their grass to repair itself.
Maintenance
In the Buffalo vs Kikuyu grass battle, Buffalo grass wins when it comes to low-maintenance lawns. You won’t need to mow as often, and it doesn’t require as much fertiliser or water once established.
Kikuyu grass needs more attention. It grows quickly, meaning you’ll need to mow regularly to keep it under control. It also requires more water and occasional fertilising.
Kikuyu Vs Buffalo Price Comparison
In terms of cost, Kikuyu grass is typically cheaper. Whether you’re buying seed or turf, Kikuyu tends to be more affordable, making it an attractive option for those on a budget.
Buffalo grass, on the other hand, can be pricier, especially if you opt for turf instead of seed. However, its low-maintenance nature could save you money in the long run.
Kikuyu vs Buffalo Grass Conclusion
So, Kikuyu vs Buffalo grass—which one should you choose? If you want a low-maintenance lawn that looks great and can handle some shade, Buffalo grass might be your best bet. However, if you’re looking for something that can handle more foot traffic and recover quickly, Kikuyu grass is the way to go.
Both types of grass offer unique benefits, so the right choice will depend on your specific needs and climate. Now that you know more about Kikuyu vs Buffalo grass, you can make an informed decision!
If you have a question about Buffalo or Kikuyu turf, you can give us a call or submit the contact form.