How Does Bahia Grass Spread?

Seed Production

• Bahia grass produces a unique Y-shaped seed head. Each seed head stands 10 to 36 inches tall. The seed heads appear throughout the spring, summer and fall months. The abundant seed production allows Bahia grass the ability to spread rapidly and become invasive. Regularly mowing of the seed heads will help control the grass's invasive habits and maintain its overall appearance. The tough stems of the seed heads can often stand up to a mower's blades, which can make mowing difficult. The grass usually requires a sharp, heavy-duty rotary mower blade to successfully chop through the grass's stems.

Growth

• The grass spreads by seed production and its rhizome-root system. Bahia grass produces a thick root system which makes it difficult for weeds or other grass seed to invade. Plant Bahia grass in slightly acidic soil for the best growth. Once established, the grass rarely requires supplemental irrigation. The grass establishes well from sod or seed. Plant Bahia grass in the spring or early summer months for optimum growth. Bahia grass seeds will grow all the way into the fall months, but once the cold weather sets, the grass's growth will decrease.

Establishment

• Bahia grass seed requires moist soil conditions to establish and develop a viable root system. If the grass begins to wilt or curl up, apply water immediately. Avoid mowing newly established Bahia grass, until its root system, has time to spread and sink deep into the soil. Once established, Bahia grass tolerates drought by going dormant. It will appear dead but will quickly begin to grow and spread once irrigated.

Growth Considerations

• Bahia grass seeds can take up to 30 days to germinate. Sow Bahia grass heavily because usually only 50 to 60 percent of the seeds germinate, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. It does not tolerate foot traffic. Its growth will also slow if planted in the shade. During the summer months, the grass readily reseeds itself. It will also spread via thick stolons. Applying nitrogen fertilizer will accelerate the growth but reduce its forage nutrients.