Tall bermuda grass represents one of the most resilient and aggressively growing warm-season turfgrasses available for demanding landscaping and athletic applications. Homeowners and groundskeepers often select this cultivar for its exceptional drought tolerance and rapid recovery rate after stress. Unlike common bermuda varieties, the tall variants feature broader leaves and a more robust vertical growth pattern. This growth habit creates a dense canopy that effectively crowds out weeds and reduces soil erosion on slopes. Understanding the specific cultural requirements ensures this vigorous grass fulfills its potential without becoming invasive in garden borders.
Identification and Growth Characteristics
The most immediate way to identify tall bermuda grass is by observing its height and leaf structure. Mature blades can extend up to six inches in length, giving the lawn a noticeably taller appearance than dwarf varieties. The color shifts from a light green during active spring growth to a dark, forest green as the season progresses. Under close inspection, the leaf blades display a slightly folded crease along the midrib, which is a key botanical feature. This grass sends out aggressive rhizomes and stolons that form a thick, interconnected mat just below the soil surface.
Climate and Soil Preferences
Tall bermuda grass thrives in regions with long, hot summers and mild winters, making it ideal for the southern United States and similar climates. It requires a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight daily to maintain its density and color intensity. While it adapts to various soil types, it performs best in well-draining sandy loams that warm quickly in the spring. Poorly drained clay soils can lead to root rot during extended periods of rainfall, so ensuring proper slope or drainage infrastructure is essential.
Planting and Establishment
Homeowners can establish tall bermuda grass either through sprigging or seeding, with sprigging generally offering the fastest visual coverage. For sprigging, pieces of sod containing rhizomes are planted every six to twelve inches in rows. Seeding requires a slightly higher rate due to lower germination percentages compared to hybrid varieties. Consistent moisture is critical during the initial four to six weeks until the roots penetrate deeply into the subsoil. Once established, the root system can reach depths of six feet, allowing the plant to access water reserves unavailable to shallow-rooted species.
Maintenance and Mowing Strategies
Optimal Mowing Height
Maintaining the correct mowing height is vital for the health of tall bermuda grass. Landscapers typically recommend a range of one to two inches for athletic fields and two to three inches for residential lawns. Cutting below one inch can expose the tender crown to sunscald and reduce the plant’s energy reserves. Conversely, allowing the grass to grow taller than three inches leads to thatch accumulation and a decrease in aesthetic uniformity. Regular mowing encourages tillering, which produces more lateral shoots and a denser surface.
Fertility and Watering
A balanced fertility program supports the aggressive growth rate of this grass, particularly during the peak growing months of late spring and summer. Nitrogen applications every four to six weeks promote deep green color and rapid recovery from traffic. Watering should be done deeply but infrequently to encourage the roots to seek moisture far below the surface. This practice reduces the frequency of irrigation and builds a grass plant that can withstand heat and drought stress more effectively than shallow-rooted alternatives.
Pest and Disease Management
While generally hardy, tall bermuda grass can face challenges from specific pests and diseases during stressful conditions. Armyworms and billbugs are the most common insect threats, often causing brown, chewed patches in the turf. Fungal diseases like dollar spot and brown patch tend to appear in humid environments with poor air circulation. Implementing proper cultural practices, such as avoiding evening watering and maintaining sharp mower blades, significantly reduces the likelihood of these issues occurring.
