Follow these steps to establish a new Bermuda Grass lawn in a sunny area of your yard. Common bermuda is a good variety to choose as it has a low maintenance requirement, survives on little water, and can be established from seed. Hulled seed will germinate quicker and can be sown as soon as soil temperature reaches 70º F.
- Take a soil sample from several locations in your lawn and have it analyzed to determine whether lime or other amendments are needed. Test kits are available at local County Extension offices.
- Apply the recommended amount of fertilizer and/or lime for your yard size and then till it into the ground to a depth of about 4 inches.
- Rake and level the ground, making sure you have drainage away from your house.
- Sow the bermuda seed at a rate of 1/2 to one pound per 1000 square feet using a hand spreader.
- Lightly rake the area to be sure the seed has good soil contact.
- Keep the soil damp until the grass has sprouted and begins to root; in hot weather this may require two-three light waterings a day.
- As the grass gets more established you can water it less frequently - but water it deeper to promote deeper root growth.
James Pendergrass, Smith County Master Gardener
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