How to Grow Thick Bahia Lawns

Push a measuring stick through the bahia lawn to the soil in the early spring to check the thatch layer. A thick thatch layer over 1/2-inch impedes bahia's growth. Thatch is a natural accumulation of dead and living organic matter between the grass blades and soil.

Push a power dethatcher across the bahia lawn. Dethatch the bahia grass in the late spring when it has greened up for the growing season. Power dethatchers remove excessive thatch to increase drainage and air flow in grass. Rake up the bahia debris.

Pour bahia grass seed into a drop spreader. Overseeding the lawn with bahia seed helps thicken thinning grass. Distribute 5 to 10 pounds of bahia seed per 1,000 square feet. Water the lawn after seeding to encourage seed germination.

Fertilizer the lawn with 1 pound of slow release nitrogen fertilizer six weeks after overseeding. Pour half of the recommended rate of fertilizer into a drop spreader. Push the drop spreader horizontally across the lawn. Add the rest of the fertilizer to the drop spreader, and push vertically for even coverage.

Water the bahia lawn with 1/2-inch to 3/4-inch to encourage the fertilizer to sink into the soil. Apply 1/2- to 3/4-inch of water to the bahia lawn when you see wilting or discoloration due to drought.

Mow bahia grass to heights of 3 to 4 inches to help maintain healthy root systems and a thick lawn. Refrain from taking off more than 1/3 of the grass blade. For example, mow bahia grass when it reaches 4 inches in height to achieve a recommended height of 3 inches.