How to Plant Bahia Grass in Florida

Disperse bahia grass seed during warm temperatures. According to the University of Florida IFAS Extension, the best time to plant is in the spring or early summer. Scarified seed is the best choice because it will germinate more quickly.

Till the land to loosen and aerate the soil. Run a rototiller over the planting area to a depth of 4 to 6 inches.

Pick up and remove debris. Weeds, stones and sticks will keep the bahia grass seed from having direct contact with the soil, which it needs to germinate.

Rake the planting area to level it. If there are low-lying spots, spread some topsoil to fill them in. Dips will cause water pooling, which can wash away the grass seed.

Disperse fertilizer. This will help the bahia grass seed grow faster. The University of Florida recommends using a 16-4-8 slow-release fertilizer bend. Spread 1 lb. per 1,000 square feet.

Fill a hand or mechanical seed spreader with the grass seed. Use the recommended rate on the seedbag. According to Hancock Seed Company, bahia grass seed should be spread at a rate of 5 to 10 lbs. per 1,000 square feet. Go over the yard twice to ensure the seed is evenly spread.

Go over the lawn with a roller. This will press the bahia grass seed into the soil, to promote root growth.

Water the seed once a day for 30 minutes. Keep the water running until the soil is wet to the touch. Watering in the morning is best, before the Florida weather warms up. Once seedlings grow, cut back to watering every other day. When the grass is 6 inches tall, give supplemental irrigation three times a week if it has not rained. Once established, bahia grass does fine in Florida without additional irrigation, but can die if watered too much.

Give the lawn fertilizer two to four times in the summer. The last dose should be done in early fall to get the grass ready for the dormant season.