When to Sow Kikuyu and Couch Warm Season Grass?
What is a Warm Season Grass variety?
Warm Season grasses thrive in hotter weather. They are perfect for hot, dry climates as they can cope with these conditions. Two of our most popular warm-season grasses are Kikuyu and Couch.
When to sow Couch and Kikuyu?
Getting your timing right is key when it comes to warm season grass sowing. Sowing Kikuyu or Couch seeds in cool temperatures isn't recommended, as they rely on higher soil temperatures to germinate. We can base this on more consistent higher overnight temperatures rather than testing the soil temperature itself.
Here are each of our main cities and a bit of an idea of when to sow warm season grasses:
- Melbourne and surrounds: Melbourne is famous for it’s very chilly Spring. It’s not until mid-October that we usually see consistency in warmth. Wait until at least then to get stuck into warm season grass sowing
- Adelaide and surrounds: Similar to Melbourne but fractionally earlier. Start sowing warm season varieties in Early Oct.
- Brisbane and surrounds: September is usally a great time to start sowing couch and kikuyu
- Sydney and surrounds: If you have a hotter than average September then green light, otherwise sow in Early October
- Canberra: Watch night time temperatures and if there is consistency start sowing warm season varieties in Early Oct.
- Tassie: Warm Season grasses aren't recommended for Tasmania - Tall Fescue is a good alternative that has drought tolerant characteristics.
Pro Tip for Established Warm-Season Lawns:
To maintain a green lawn during cooler months, overseed with annual or perennial ryegrass. Ryegrass stays green even in cold weather, providing year-round greenery. This way, you can enjoy a lush lawn all year.