When choosing the right lawn for your home or property, Kikuyu and Buffalo grass are two of the most popular options in Australia. Both have distinct advantages and disadvantages, making the choice dependent on factors such as climate, maintenance requirements, durability, and personal preference.
In this article, we’ll explore whether Kikuyu makes a good lawn and compare it to Buffalo grass to help you decide which is better suited for your needs.
Is Kikuyu a Good Lawn Grass?
Advantages of Kikuyu Grass
Kikuyu (Pennisetum clandestinum) is a warm-season grass that thrives in Australia’s climate. Due to its fast-growing and resilient nature, it is widely used in residential lawns, sports fields, and parks.
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Fast Growth and Self-Repairing Ability
- Kikuyu spreads rapidly through both underground rhizomes and above-ground stolons.
- It quickly recovers from damage, making it ideal for high-traffic areas like backyards with kids and pets.
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Drought Tolerance
- Kikuyu grass is highly drought-resistant, meaning it can survive with minimal watering compared to other grass types.
- Its deep root system helps it access moisture from the soil even in dry conditions.
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Affordability
- One of the most budget-friendly grass varieties available.
- Its rapid growth reduces the need for frequent reseeding or replacement.
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Bright Green Aesthetic
- Kikuyu maintains a lush, vibrant green colour throughout most of the year, especially in warmer climates.
- It provides a thick, soft lawn that looks great and feels comfortable underfoot.
Disadvantages of Kikuyu Grass
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Invasive Growth
- While its fast growth is an advantage, Kikuyu can become invasive, spreading aggressively into garden beds and neighbouring properties.
- It requires regular edging and maintenance to prevent it from overtaking other plants.
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High Mowing Requirements
- Due to its quick growth rate, Kikuyu needs frequent mowing, sometimes as often as once a week during peak growing seasons.
- If not maintained, it can become too thick, leading to scalping issues when cut too low.
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Not as Shade-Tolerant
- Kikuyu prefers full sun and struggles in shaded areas.
- If you have a yard with large trees or shaded spots, Kikuyu may thin out and become patchy.
Kikuyu vs. Buffalo Grass: Which Is Better?
Buffalo grass (Stenotaphrum secundatum) is another popular choice for Australian lawns. It has a different growth pattern and maintenance level compared to Kikuyu, making it a preferred option for certain homeowners.
1. Growth Rate and Maintenance
- Kikuyu: Grows aggressively and requires frequent mowing.
- Buffalo: Slower growing and requires less mowing, making it easier to maintain.
Winner: Buffalo grass is better if you prefer a lower-maintenance lawn.
2. Drought Resistance
- Kikuyu: Very drought-tolerant and recovers quickly after dry spells.
- Buffalo: Also drought-tolerant but retains moisture better, reducing the need for watering.
Winner: Buffalo grass conserves water better, but Kikuyu recovers faster after a drought.
3. Wear and Tear Resilience
- Kikuyu: Excellent for high-traffic areas due to its rapid self-repair ability.
- Buffalo: More durable but takes longer to recover from damage.
Winner: Kikuyu is better for lawns that experience heavy foot traffic.
4. Shade Tolerance
- Kikuyu: Requires full sun and struggles in shaded areas.
- Buffalo: Tolerates moderate to heavy shade, making it better for yards with trees or buildings blocking sunlight.
Winner: Buffalo grass is the better choice if your lawn has significant shade.
5. Aesthetic Appeal
- Kikuyu: Bright green and thick, giving a lush, vibrant appearance.
- Buffalo: Slightly broader leaves, soft underfoot, and retains a deep green colour year-round.
Winner: Personal preference, but Buffalo is often considered more visually appealing due to its softness.
6. Invasiveness
- Kikuyu: Highly invasive and can spread into garden beds and neighbouring areas if not controlled.
- Buffalo: Less invasive and easier to manage within defined lawn areas.
Winner: Buffalo grass is the better choice if you want a grass variety that won’t spread uncontrollably.
Which One Should You Choose?
The decision between Kikuyu and Buffalo grass depends on your lawn care preferences, climate, and how the lawn will be used.
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Choose Kikuyu if:
- You need a fast-growing, self-repairing lawn for high-traffic areas.
- You live in a hot, sunny climate with minimal shade.
- You don’t mind frequent mowing and maintenance.
- You’re looking for an affordable grass variety.
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Choose Buffalo if:
- You want a low-maintenance lawn with less mowing required.
- Your yard has shaded areas where Kikuyu may struggle.
- You prefer a soft, visually appealing lawn that stays green all year.
- You want a grass type that won’t invade garden beds or surrounding areas.
Cost of Kikuyu Grass Laying Per Square Metre
The cost of laying Kikuyu grass varies depending on factors such as location, supplier, and whether you install it yourself or hire professionals. In Sydney, you can expect to pay:
- Kikuyu turf per square metre: $6 to $10
- Installation cost per square metre: $10 to $20 (if hiring professionals)
- Total cost per square metre (turf + installation): $16 to $30
For the best quality Kikuyu turf in Sydney, A View Turf is a highly recommended supplier. They offer premium Kikuyu grass that is durable, cost-effective, and suited to Australia’s climate. Whether you are looking for turf for residential lawns, sports fields, or commercial properties, A View Turf provides reliable service and high-quality Kikuyu grass.
Conclusion
Both Kikuyu and Buffalo grass have their strengths and weaknesses, making them suitable for different lawn requirements. Kikuyu is a great option if you want a cost-effective, fast-growing lawn that can withstand heavy use. However, its high maintenance needs and invasiveness can be a drawback.
On the other hand, Buffalo grass offers a more low-maintenance alternative that thrives in shaded areas, making it ideal for homeowners who want a beautiful lawn without constant upkeep.
Ultimately, your choice will depend on your lawn conditions, climate, and how much effort you’re willing to put into maintenance. By weighing the pros and cons of each grass type, you can find the perfect lawn solution for your home.