How to Plant Aztec Grass

Find the Right Location

• 1

  Choose a planting area with partial to full shade. According to the University of Florida, Aztec grass prefers some shade and moist soil, but will tolerate lots of sun and droughts once it is securely planted. Ideally, the grass will have fewer than six hours of sun in USDA hardiness zones nine through 11.

• 2

  Prepare the soil for planting by thoroughly weeding the area. The National Gardening Association recommends adding organic matter, such as compost, to make the soil more nutrient rich. Put a layer of compost on top of the soil and use a tiller or garden fork to mix the compost in and aerate the soil to a depth of at least 5 to 6 inches. If the soil is dry, add enough water to dampen but not totally saturate it. The National Gardening Association Recommends raking the soil flat before planting the grass.

• 3

  Plant the grass by separating a large starter clump of Aztec grass into small clumps that all contain roots. Aztec grass withstands transplanting well, so it is easy to dig up a starter clump from another area. The University of Hawaii recommends planting the grass clumps 4 to 12 inches apart from each other. Bury all of the grass roots but do not cover them deeply.

• 4

  Water the grass enough to keep the soil moist until it is solidly established and starts to fill in the entire ground cover area. After the grass grows in fully, it can survive in many climates with just rain water and even withstands droughts. If, however, the garden area goes without rain for an extended period of time, gardeners should water Aztec grass to keep it in good condition.