How to lay a small patch of Buffalo grass?

Marina1

I want to re-lay a small patch of grass with a gentle slope so that some of the excess water drains from the patch of grass, which can become soft and soggy over time. I have noticed the best grass in my suburb appears to be higher than the surrounding footpaths and with a gentle slope. I have sandy soil but the grass still retains water. I have been told to try and include some clay in the soil to help retain some structure. How can I best prepare the ground to lay new buffalo grass and should I do so with a gentle slope?

EricL

Hello @Marina1

Yes, giving the new buffalo lawn a very gentle slope is a good idea, particularly if this patch tends to stay soft and soggy. Raising the finished lawn slightly above the surrounding paths can help surface water move away rather than sitting on the turf. Aim for a gradual fall of around 1 to 2cm per metre towards an area where the water can safely disperse, rather than creating a noticeable mound.

Since you have sandy soil, I don't recommend adding a layer of clay by itself. Clay mixed unevenly through sand can create dense pockets and potentially make drainage worse. A better approach is to improve the existing soil with a quality sandy loam or turf underlay such as Scotts Lawn Builder 25L Organic Lawn Soil Topdress & Underlay (special order), which gives the buffalo roots a more stable growing medium while still allowing good drainage. If clay is used, it should only be a small proportion thoroughly blended through the soil rather than installed as a separate layer.

Remove the existing turf and loosen the soil to around 100–150 mm deep. If the ground underneath is particularly compacted, break it up with a garden fork before adding your improved soil. Spread the turf underlay, shape it to your gentle fall and lightly compact it so that it is firm enough to walk on without sinking deeply. Allow for the thickness of your new turf when establishing the final height.

Lay your buffalo turf across the prepared surface with the joins tightly butted together, then lightly roll or press it down so the roots have good contact with the soil. Water it thoroughly after laying and keep the underlying soil consistently moist while the roots establish.

One important point is that raising and sloping the lawn will help with surface drainage, but if the area becomes soggy because water has nowhere to escape below ground, changing the lawn level alone may not completely solve it. In that situation, improving the underlying drainage or installing a small drainage system may also be worthwhile. Overall, though, a slightly raised buffalo lawn with a gentle, properly formed fall sounds like a very sensible approach for your patch.

Here is a handy step-by-step guide: How To Lay Turf For A Lush, Green Lawn (some of the steps will be applicable to your project)

Please remember to wear personal protection such as gloves and goggles.

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric