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How to Manage Pests

The UC Guide to Healthy Lawns

| Index to contents | Acknowledgments | Related UC publications | References |

Planting and management tips for kikuyugrass

Mowing

  • Mow frequently.
  • Mow at 1 - 1.5 inches.
  • Mowing can be difficult because of the coarse nature and thatch development of the species.

Fertilizing

  • Fertilize using 2 lbs. nitrogen/1000 sq. ft. per year during the period of active growth (February - November).
  • Limit fertilization during high temperature summer months.

Planting

  • Plant as sod or plugs.

Irrigation

  • Water deep and infrequently.
  • Kikuyugrass can recover from drought.

Special problems

  • Invasive
  • Scalped if not mowed frequently
  • Produces heavy thatch
  • Dormant (semi-dormant) in winter

For more information, see the following sections:

Statewide IPM Program, Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of California
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