The Best Grass Seed for Southwest Texas

Bermuda Grass

• Bermuda grass is a warm-weather turf that grows in sub-tropical, tropical and transition zones. It is an easy grass to establish from seed, and grows quickly. Seedlings normally take between seven to 30 days to germinate, depending on soil nutrients, fertilization and rainfall. Once the seedling makes its way through the soil, it may take on a brown or purple hue, making it easy to mistake for weeds. This coloration is often due to soil nutrient deficiency. A typical lawn should take one to three months to grow into a usable turf. Plant Bermuda grass seeds in spring when temperatures remain over 70 degrees Fahrenheit. If the soil temperature dips below this, the seeds will not germinate.

Buffalo Grass

• Buffalo grass is one of the few indigenous warm-season grasses of the Southern Plains states. Historically, the grass was the primary food source of the American bison, hence its name. It grows best in the northernmost areas of Southwest Texas. According to Texas A&M University turfgrass specialists, seeds that are chill-treated for at least six weeks in sub-freezing temperatures have higher germination rates after planting. Pre-treating the seeds breaks the dormancy, and seeds planted in April or May germinate within seven to 10 days with sufficient moisture. If moisture is inadequate, seeds remain dormant until irrigated or enough rain falls. During the establishment phase, weed control is imperative. Pull, mow or spray any invasive plants. For best results, soil temperatures should remain above 60 degrees Fahrenheit for optimum germination.

Zoysia Grass

• Zoysia grass grows well in almost all parts of the state, including Southwest Texas. It is adaptable to cooler weather, although it does best in warm weather. Prior to planting seed, the sod should be free of weeds and other plants, as zoysia grows more slowly than other grass types. Unlike Bermuda, zoysia grass tolerates moderate shade. Seeds should be planted in spring after soil temperatures consistently stay above 70 degrees Fahrenheit, after the danger of freezing has past. Do not plant zoysia seeds less than 90 days prior to the first frost in the fall, as it takes this long to fully establish. As of 2010, Texas A&M developed the Zorro variety, which the National Turfgrass Evaluation Program bestowed a number-one ranking on, due to its hardiness and low maintenance requirements.