How to Make Buffalo Grass Thicker (Full Lawn Density Guide)

Buffalo grass thickens by spreading outward through surface runners (stolons). To create a dense, soft lawn, the goal is to encourage strong runner growth and protect the leaf canopy. If the lawn is thinning, patchy, or showing bare areas, it usually means the roots and runners are under stress — often from mowing height, watering habits, or compacted soil. Thick Buffalo lawns come from:

Correct mowing height
Deep but infrequent watering
Healthy runner spread
Balanced nutrient support

Once these basics are aligned, Buffalo will naturally fill gaps and form a thick, carpet-like lawn that resists weeds, heat, and wear.

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Steps to Thicken Buffalo Grass Quickly

1. Raise Your Mowing Height

Buffalo must be kept longer for density. The blades shade the runners and protect the root zone.

Ideal height: 35–65mm
Short mowing causes thinning, dryness, and bald patches

2. Water Deeply, Not Frequently

Deep watering encourages deeper, thicker root systems, which support thicker surface growth.

Water in the morning, 2–3 times per week during warmer months
Allow the lawn to dry slightly between waterings to avoid thatch rot

3. Aerate Compact or Hard Soil

Runner spread slows dramatically in compacted lawns.

Use a manual core aerator, aeration sandals, or garden fork
Focus on high-traffic areas where grass appears thinner

4. Feed Lightly and Regularly

Once mowing and watering are correct, nutrients drive green growth and runner spread.

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A balanced liquid fertiliser like Lawn Grow — Hose-On Liquid Lawn Fertiliser helps Buffalo grass thicken by feeding both the leaf and root zone for faster recovery and denser surface spread.

Apply every 4–6 weeks during active growth
Water in the morning to support uptake
Keep mowing height high to protect new runners

FAQ

How long does it take to thicken Buffalo grass?
With correct mowing, watering, aeration, and feeding — noticeable thickening appears in 3–6 weeks.

Will Buffalo fill in bare patches?
Yes — as long as the runners beneath the surface are still alive. If runners are brittle and dry, that area must be re-turfed.

Should I dethatch Buffalo?
Usually no. Buffalo produces thatch naturally, and dethatching too aggressively can damage runners. Aeration is safer and more effective.

Why does my Buffalo stay thin?
Almost always: mowing too short, compacted soil, inconsistent watering, or lack of nutrients.