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How to Manage Pests

The UC Guide to Healthy Lawns

Planting and management tips for bermudagrass

Mowing

• Mow short to produce neat, restrained turf.
• Mow frequently during warm months.
• Mow seeded bermudagrass at 1 - 1.5 inches; both rotary and reel lawn mowers can be used.
• Mow hybrids at 0.5 - 0.75 inches; a reel mower should be used.

Fertilizing

• Fertilize using 2 - 4 lbs. nitrogen/1000 sq. ft. per year during the period of active growth (April - September) for seeded bermudagrass.
• More attention is required for hybrid varieties; fertilize using 4 - 6 lbs. Nitrogen/1000 sq. ft. per year during the period of active growth (April - September).

Planting

• Establish seeded bermudagrass from seed in areas where adapted.
• Seed at 1 lb. seed/1000 sq. ft.
• Establish hybrids vegetatively from sod, stolons or sprigs (4 - 6 bushels/1000 sq. ft.), and plugs.

Irrigation

• Water infrequently.
• Water deeply to develop a healthy root system.
• Avoid frequent, shallow watering.

Special problems

• Bermudagrass mite
• Dichondra flea beetle
• Fiery skipper
• Spring dead spot
• Invasive
• Hybrid bermudagrass requires frequent mowing
• Dormant in winter

For more information, see the following sections:

• Lawn care for new lawns
• Lawn care for established lawns