How To Make Bermuda Grass Thicker?

Achieving a thick and lush Bermuda grass lawn is a goal shared by many homeowners, property managers, and landscape enthusiasts.

A dense turf provides not only aesthetic appeal but also increased resilience to foot traffic, weeds, and pests.

Published: May 4, 2023.

Making Bermuda Grass Thicker

To achieve a thicker Bermuda grass lawn, follow these essential steps:

• Proper mowing: Regular mowing encourages lateral growth, leading to a denser lawn. Mow Bermuda grass at the height of 1 to 1.5 inches and avoid removing more than one-third of the grass blade in a single mowing session. Mow frequently, ideally every 5-7 days during the growing season, to promote optimal thickness.
• Adequate watering: Water your lawn deeply and infrequently, providing 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week through rainfall or supplemental irrigation. This schedule helps develop a strong root system and supports thicker growth. Water in the early morning to minimize evaporation and prevent fungal diseases.
• Balanced fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer with an appropriate nitrogen-to-phosphorus-to-potassium ratio. Nitrogen promotes lush, thick growth, while phosphorus and potassium support root development and overall plant health. Conduct a soil test to determine the specific nutrient requirements of your lawn and fertilize accordingly, typically during the active growing season.
• Aeration: Bermuda grass lawns can become compacted over time, which hinders root growth and prevents optimal nutrient uptake. Aerate your lawn annually or as needed, using a core aerator to remove small plugs of soil and allow air, water, and nutrients to penetrate more effectively.
• Overseeding: In areas with thin or patchy grass, overseed with Bermuda grass seed to improve density. Choose a high-quality, compatible seed variety and follow the recommended seeding rates. The best time to overseed is in late spring or early summer when soil temperatures are consistently above 65°F (18°C).
• Weed and pest control: Regularly inspect your lawn for signs of weed infestations or pest damage. Treat weeds with appropriate herbicides, and consult with a lawn care professional for pest management solutions. A healthy, dense lawn will be more resistant to weed invasion and pest damage.

These steps are essential for promoting a thicker, healthier Bermuda grass lawn that is more resilient to environmental stress and better equipped to withstand foot traffic and other pressures.

Recommended NPK Fertilizer For Bermuda Grass

A balanced NPK (nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium) fertilizer for Bermuda grass typically has a higher nitrogen content, as nitrogen promotes lush, green growth.

A recommended NPK ratio for Bermuda grass is 3-1-2 or 4-1-2. For example, a fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 24-8-16 or 16-4-8 would be suitable.

However, it is essential to conduct a soil test before applying any fertilizer to determine the specific nutrient needs of your lawn, as the optimal NPK ratio may vary based on your soil's existing nutrient levels and pH.

During the growing season, Bermuda grass lawns generally require monthly applications of nitrogen at a rate of 1 pound per 1,000 square feet. Depending on the fertilizer's nitrogen content, the application rate will vary.

For example, if you use a 24-8-16 fertilizer, apply 4.16 pounds of the product per 1,000 square feet to deliver 1 pound of nitrogen.

Remember always to follow the manufacturer's instructions on the fertilizer label and avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive growth and other lawn health issues. Properly timed and balanced fertilization will help promote a healthy, lush, dense Bermuda grass lawn.

How To Distribute Bermuda Grass Seeds When Overseeding The Bermuda Grass

Overseeding your Bermuda grass lawn can help improve its density and appearance, particularly in thin or patchy areas.

Follow these steps to distribute Bermuda grass seeds when overseeding:

• Choose the right time: The optimal time for overseeding Bermuda grass is in late spring or early summer when soil temperatures are consistently above 65°F (18°C). This allows for better seed germination and establishment.
• Prepare the lawn: Mow the existing Bermuda grass to a height of 1 to 1.5 inches. Rake the lawn thoroughly to remove any debris, clippings, and thatch. This will ensure better seed-to-soil contact and improve germination.
• Aerate the soil: Aerate the lawn using a core aerator to relieve soil compaction, enhance seed-to-soil contact, and improve air, water, and nutrient penetration. This step will support better seed germination and root development.
• Choose high-quality seed: Select a high-quality, compatible Bermuda grass seed variety. Check the label for germination rates, weed seed percentages, and the recommended seeding rate.
• Distribute the seeds: Use a broadcast spreader or drop spreader to distribute the Bermuda grass seeds across the lawn evenly. Follow the recommended seeding rate provided on the seed label, typically ranging from 1 to 3 pounds of seed per 1,000 square feet. To ensure even coverage, divide the seed in half and apply in two perpendicular passes.
• Rake and roll: Lightly rake the area to help the seeds make good contact with the soil. Use a lawn roller filled with water to gently press the seeds into the soil, further improving seed-to-soil contact.
• Water and fertilize: Water the overseeded area lightly and frequently, keeping the soil consistently moist until the seeds germinate, usually within 7 to 14 days. Gradually transition to a regular watering schedule once the new grass has been established. Apply a starter fertilizer with a balanced NPK ratio, such as 18-24-12, to support initial growth.
• Mow and maintain: Begin mowing the newly overseeded Bermuda grass once it reaches a height of 2 inches. Gradually reduce the mowing height to the desired level of 1 to 1.5 inches. Follow proper lawn care practices, including mowing, watering, and fertilizing, to promote a healthy and dense Bermuda grass lawn.

If you follow these steps, you can effectively overseed your Bermuda grass lawn and enjoy a thicker, more vibrant turf.