How to Care for Seashore Paspalum

Mow seashore paspalum down to 1/2 inch to 1 inch tall in the home landscape, preferably with a reel mower. Mow it when it reaches 3/4 inch to 1 1/2 inches tall so you are cutting off no more than a third of its total height.

Water seashore paspalum during its growing season with at least 1/2 inch of water per watering. Seashore paspalum thrives with between 1 and 1 1/2 inches of water a week, either from rain or supplemental irrigation. Seashore paspalum needs water when the blades start to roll or wilt or you start to notice footprint impressions, according to a University of Florida Extension report. Tap water that is safe for drinking is better than gray, undrinkable well water or ocean water, but seashore paspalum will tolerate all water types.

Control weeds. Proper mowing and irrigation helps, but hand pulling weeds and treating weeds with 2,4-D or dicamba may be necessary when the weeds are difficult to control. Apply herbicides per label instructions.

Remove thatch buildup with a vertical mower, or power rake, once a year during active growth. Blades should be spaced two to three inches apart. You may want to turn this job over to a professional. To reduce the need for thatching, the University of Florida Extension recommends that homeowners mow with a mulching mower.

Fertilize seashore paspalum three times a year, once in the early spring, once in late spring or early summer and once more in late summer. Use a grass fertilizer, applying no more than 1/2 pound of nitrogen for every 1,000 square feet at each application. Apply fertilizer evenly and as indicated on the label. Water the fertilizer in with 1/2 inch to 1 inch of water.