Bahia is a tough, deeply rooted grass that thrives in Florida’s humid heat. It is suited to hot, sunny areas that experience alternating periods of heavy rain and drought. Bahia has the ability to grow in conditions that would cause other grasses to fail. Bahia is tough and can handle heavy foot traffic after it has been well established. You do not have to spoil Bahia with extreme care as it is truly low maintenance grass.
After the establishment period Bahia needs little or no watering. Fertilizer is needed to bring out and retain the best green color Bahia can offer. Use a fertilizer that contains iron for the maximum greening effect. Apply fertilizer in late winter or early spring and late spring or early summer. Add lime in the fall to raise the pH level if needed. The ideal pH level is 6.5 to 7.5.
Mow Bahia at a height of 3 inches. Cutting the grass lower than this invites weeds, can injure the crowns of the grass and will reduce new green growth. To remove the dead growth in the spring mow once at 2 inches and collect the clippings then raise the mowing height back to 3 inches for regular mowing.
Allow the grass to become semi-dormant is the winter. The color of the grass will change from light green to brown for a few weeks. This short rest period is beneficial for Bahia and fertilizing or watering during late fall interrupts this process.
The primary pest for Bahia is the mole cricket. You can find a recommended insect control product at your local lawn care or hardware store. Apply insect control (only if needed) in late spring, early summer or late summer.
Bahia has few disease problems, none of which are severe. Disease problems can usually be managed through proper fertilization practices.
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