How to care for kikuyu grass

Kikuyu grass loves to be mown regularly. A general rule of thumb is to mow once a week to keep it in check. This encourages new growth, resulting in a thicker and more luxurious-looking lawn. To tackle this dense and lush grass, it’s recommended to use a robust lawn mower – for example, a high-powered cordless or petrol lawnmower. Set your lawn mower to a height of 20-25mm and mow regularly during peak growth period (spring and summer).

For kikuyu lawns in their infancy stage, you’ll need to water as much as three times per day. This will help your lawn to develop a robust and solid root system that will form its signature drought-tolerance during drier periods. Once your lawn is established, water once every one to two weeks.

If you notice the tips of your lawn starting to turn brown, this is a sign of under-watering, so increase your watering schedule. Use a sprinkler system, garden hose or drip irrigation system, watering deeply in the mornings to maximise watering efficiency. This will allow enough time for the soil to soak up the water and decrease your risk of fungal disease as the grass will have sufficient time to dry.

When it comes to fertilising your kikuyu grass, there are a few tips to keep in mind for a lush and vibrant lawn. Choose a slow-release granular lawn fertiliser that contains a mix of macro and micronutrients. It's best to err on the side of caution and use it at the lower end of the recommended rate to avoid overfeeding your grass. A general rule of thumb is to fertilise three to four times per year, during early summer and autumn.

Be mindful of using fertilisers with high nitrogen content during the warmer months, as they can lead to excessive leaf growth, which will require more mowing and increased lawn care. If you're aiming to achieve a vivid green colour, try adding a liquid iron fertiliser to your routine, as it can give your grass that extra pop of green without the extra growth.

Keeping your kikuyu grass vibrant and pest-free is easy if you follow a few simple steps. To tackle weeds, pull them out by hand or with a weed-puller. You can also use a selective herbicide made for broadleaf weeds; be sure to check the label for compatibility with your lawn.

A common pest in kikuyu grass lawns is grubs. You’ll notice signs like wilting or browning grass and patches of dead grass. Pull up the affected grass and apply an insecticide to get rid of the grubs. When choosing an insecticide, opt for one that’s going to kill existing pests and prevent new infestations from taking hold. 

Patchy areas in your kikuyu lawn can be easily fixed by overseeding with fresh kikuyu grass seed. Spread the kikuyu lawn seed evenly over the patches, making sure to cover the area well. After seeding, remember to water regularly to keep the soil nice and moist until the new grass seedlings have taken root. With a little bit of care and patience, your lawn will be back to normal in no time.

When it comes to keeping your kikuyu grass in top shape, aerating is key. It's best to do this during the spring and summer when the grass is growing strong and can bounce back quickly. Keep an eye on your local climate, weather, and soil conditions to choose the perfect time for aeration – it's easiest right after a good rain because the soil will be softer. Aim to aerate once or twice a year for the healthiest growth.

When your kikuyu grass starts to show some wear and tear, it's a good idea to give it a dethatching session. Begin by mowing the grass to get it ready. Use a dethatching rake or machine to gently remove the dead grass and debris. Once you've finished, be sure to dispose of everything properly following your local council's guidelines.

When choosing your top dressing, opt for a blend of sand, soil, and organic matter. This will enrich the soil and keep it healthy. Spring is the perfect season for this, as your grass is gearing up for growth. Spread the top dress evenly across your lawn, using a rake to make sure it's distributed smoothly. This will help the water drain better and encourage strong root development, ensuring your kikuyu grass stays lush and vibrant all year long.

Check out our seasonal guide to lawn care.