How Long Can Buffalo Grass Seed Lay Dormant?

Seed Germination

• The seeds of buffalo grass remain dormant during periods of drought. Once the rains return in the spring the seeds break dormancy and begin to grow but if the drought continues the seeds will remain dormant. The seeds produce approximately 2 inches of growth per day once germination begins. The grass produces spreading stolons at only two months of age. At the end of the summer the grass has produced roots that extend 2 feet below the soil's surface.

Requirements

• The seeds of buffalo grass are dispersed in a protective burr covering that clings to animals or clothing to help facilitate spread. Heavy seeding occurs in the fall months. The seeds require a period of cold stratification throughout winter to break dormancy. Abrasion of the seed's outer surface can also encourage it to spring out of dormancy. The seeds require sunlight to break dormancy. They will not break dormancy if buried below the soil's surface.

Growth

• Buffalo grass seeds break dormancy and grow best when they receives at least 12 and 25 inches of rain per year. Once established the grass can subsist on only 7 inches of rainfall per year. The grass grows in elevations that range from 2,000 to 6,300 feet. Once established the grass spreads by stolons and seeds. It grows approximately 8 to 10 inches tall. The male plants grow taller than the female plants.

Treated Seeds

• Buffalo grass seed that is purchased at a store has been pre-treated to help ensure that the seeds break dormancy when planted. The seeds have undergone a period of cold stratification and received a chemical treatment of sodium hypochlorite to break their dormancy. Approximately 80 to 90 percent of the pretreated commercial seeds will be viable and germinate. Late spring or early summer is the best time to plant commercial buffalo grass seeds. Germination usually occurs in seven to 10 days but may be delayed for up to 21 days after planting when adequate irrigation is provided.