Growing Bermuda

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Bermuda is a warm season turf grass that is become increasingly popular here in the Kansas City area. Many of the local sports fields have used Bermuda and are discovering its excellent wear tolerance and drought resistant tendencies.

Bermuda field. Picture by B. Fresenburg

Bermuda thrives when the temperatures rise each summer. The grass is adaptable to a wide variety of soil conditions as long as the site is in full sun. Heavy shade will thin the turf out and the quality soon suffers. Bermuda has an aggressive growth habit. It can become invasive in flowerbeds or gardens if left unchecked. Cultivars Midlawn, Quickstand, and OKS 95-1 are well adapted for our area due to cold tolerance.

Bermuda can be established by seed, sod or sprigging. The ideal time to establish Bermuda is late May through July. During establishment, Bermuda responds well to irrigation and frequent, light fertilization. Bermuda can be mowed at heights ranging from half an inch up to 2 inches. Infrequent, deep watering in the morning hours are preferred when the turf shows signs of wilting.

Bermuda can be fertilized monthly during the summer months. An application rate of 1 lb. of actual N per 1,000 sq. ft. is recommended. Thatch can become a problem on established lawns. De-thatching should be performed when thatch layers exceed half an inch. De-thatching can be performed any time the turf is actively growing.

Due to the aggressive nature of Bermuda, weeds are not generally a big concern. Crabgrass prevention materials and selective broadleaf herbicide chemicals are all that is generally needed for season long weed control.

Bermuda does not have a lot of fungus related problems. Timely fungicide applications can generally suppress any outbreaks.

Careful use of insecticides is recommended if an insect problem is detected.

Lala Kumar, KumarL@missouri.edu
Regional Specialist, Horticulture
Jackson County, MIssouri
University of Missouri Extension