About Bermuda Sod
Bermuda sod grass is ideal for anyone in the south who wants a hardy grass that is capable of enduring heat and requires less watering. It has become an important turf grass used throughout the southern United States and is known by several common names including wiregrass and devilgrass.
Bermuda grass is a warm season perennial species adapted to tropical and subtropical climates. It is sometimes referred to as the “sports turf of the south”. In warm frost-free climates it remains green throughout the year, but growth is significantly reduced at the onset of cool nights. It is known for producing a vigorous, dense, fine bladed turf that is commonly used on sports fields, commercial properties, and high-maintenance lawns. Bermuda grass also provides hay and pasture for livestock throughout the tropical and subtropical areas of the world.
Contact our team with any questions to ensure you purchase the right sod grass for your lawn.
How to Care for Bermuda Sod
Bermuda has many advantages including: aggressive growth, minimum level of maintenance, and tolerance for heat, sun, and drought. Bermuda grass thrives in warm climates and full sunlight but does not do well in the shade. Homeowners may notice brown spots of grass beneath shady trees and decks while the rest of the lawn is fully green. If a lawn is mostly shaded, Bermuda may not be the best turf choice for that property.
Soil
Bermuda sod grows well on a wide variety of soils from heavy clays to deep sands, provided fertility is not limiting. It tolerates both acid and alkaline soil conditions and is highly tolerant to saline conditions. Soil temperature, as influenced by air temperature, is also important to the growth and development of Bermuda turf. Soil temperatures above 65°F are required for significant growth of rhizomes, roots and stolons. Optimum soil temperature for root growth is around 80°F.
Water
Bermuda is found in tropical and subtropical climates with 25 to 100 inches of annual rainfall, but it also survives in arid climates along waterways and in irrigated areas. Where annual rainfall is below 20 inches per year, bermuda grass requires irrigation to survive. Bermuda develops into a semi-dormant state during very dry conditions, but has the capability of surviving extreme droughts. Rhizomes of bermuda grass can lose 50% or more of their weight and still recover when favorable moisture develops.
Light
Bermuda loves the sun and does not grow well under shaded conditions. The duration of the light period also influences growth and development of this grass variety.
Temperature
This grass species makes the best growth where average daily temperatures are above 75°F. Optimum daytime temperature for Bermuda is between 95° and 100°F. It grows best under extended periods of high temperatures, mild winters and moderate to high rainfall. Temperature is the main environmental factor that limits its adaptability to tropical and subtropical areas of the world. Research has demonstrated that Bermuda grass will continue to grow with night temperatures as low as 34°F if day temperatures are near 70°F. (Texas A&M University Extension Service)
Fertilizer
Bermuda grass often lacks nitrogen, so your fertilizer should be nitrogen heavy. Two to four pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 sq. ft. will need to be added to Bermuda lawns each year. The amount of nitrogen and how often you should apply it will vary based on your location and soil analysis.
Learn more about other sod grass varieties by visiting our grasses page or by contacting our team located in Foley, Alabama