Kikuyu Grass

Why choose Kikuyu grass in Perth

• Kikuyu is known for its vigorous growth and quick establishment. In Perth's warm climate, Kikuyu grass can establish rapidly, providing a green and lush lawn within a short period.
• Kikuyu has good drought tolerance, which means it can survive with minimal irrigation once established. It has deep roots that help it access water from deeper soil layers, allowing it to withstand dry periods better than some other grass species.
• Kikuyu is known for its ability to tolerate heavy foot traffic and recover quickly from damage. It can handle the wear and tear associated with sports fields, playgrounds, and active households.
• Kikuyu is generally more affordable compared to some other turfgrass options. Its rapid growth and ability to spread quickly mean that less initial planting material is required to cover a given area.
• Kikuyu thrives in full sun conditions, making it ideal for Perth's sunny climate. It can handle the intense sunlight and heat, maintaining its colour and vigour even during the hot summer months.
• Kikuyu can be invasive and spread into unwanted areas if not properly contained or maintained. Regular edging and maintenance practices are necessary to prevent it from encroaching on garden beds. 

Products to use on Kikuyu grass

Kikuyu needs fertilising little and often, Turfect Energy is a complete, 3-in-1 fertiliser. Containing a fusion of fast and slow-release nutrients, soil improvers and bio-stimulants in the one, easy to apply mini granule. Apply 30 - 50g/m2, every 6 - 8 weeks.

Kikuyu also responds well to liquid feeding, apply Turfect Grow every 3-4 weeks, a premium foliar fertiliser and inoculant for excellent growth and colour maintenance in all seasons. Provides all essential turf nutrients and soil stimulants for year-round vigour. Add 100ml to 1L of water and apply over 20-30m2

Apply your first application of wetting agent for the season in early Spring - vital on WA's sandy, hydrophobic soils. Baileys Grosorb is available as a liquid or a mini prill granule and should be applied at a rate of 50g/m2 or 50ml/m2. Apply again in Autumn.

Tips to maintain Kikuyu grass

Kikuyu requires regular watering to stay lush and green. Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth. Water your lawn in the early morning or late afternoon to minimize evaporation and allow the grass to dry before the evening.

Keep your Kikuyu at an optimal height of around 2.5 to 4 centimetres. Regular mowing is necessary during the active growing season to control the growth and maintain a neat appearance. Avoid cutting more than one-third of the grass height in a single mowing session to prevent stress on the turf.

Keep your lawn free from weeds that can compete with the Kikuyu for nutrients and space. Regularly inspect your lawn and manually remove any weeds that appear. Consider using a selective herbicide designed specifically for Kikuyu if weed infestations become significant.

Aerating your lawn helps alleviate soil compaction and improves the penetration of water, air, and nutrients to the grass roots. Use a garden fork or a mechanical aerator to create small holes in the soil. Spring or early autumn is an ideal time for aeration.

Kikuyu can develop a thatch layer over time, which is a dense accumulation of dead organic material above the soil. Excessive thatch can hinder water and nutrient absorption. Periodically dethatch your lawn using a vertimower to maintain a healthy grass surface.

For more information on renovating your lawn, head over to the Lawn Hub - https://www.baileysfertiliser.com.au/lawn-hub