The perfect lawn is more than just a patch of green — it’s an extension of your living space. Whether you’re entertaining guests, giving pets a place to roam or creating a safe play area for kids, the right ground cover can make all the difference. Choosing the ideal turf for your home involves understanding your local environment, household needs and desired aesthetic.
Here’s how to choose the best variety by focusing on your location, lifestyle and specific lawn requirements.
1. Know Your Conditions
Australia’s varied climate zones make it essential to choose a lawn type that suits your region. From the humid tropics to dry inland areas, different grasses respond differently to temperature, rainfall and sunlight.
Palmetto
Palmetto is a low-maintenance buffalo variety known for its drought tolerance and slow lateral growth. It performs well in full sun and partial shade, making it a versatile option for most climates. Its deep root system helps it remain green longer during dry conditions, especially in areas with moderate watering restrictions.
Sapphire
If your lawn is partially shaded, Sapphire is a solid choice. It’s a soft-leaf buffalo grass that thrives in shaded environments and delivers a vibrant green colour year-round. This variety is also quick to recover from wear, which makes it ideal for small backyards or shaded side gardens.
Kenda
Engineered for tough Australian conditions, Kenda is a hard-wearing kikuyu variety that excels in high-traffic areas. Its rapid growth and self-repairing capabilities make it perfect for active families or properties with large open areas. Keep in mind, though, that Kenda will require regular edging to keep it under control.
2. Match Turf to Your Lifestyle
Aside from climate, your household’s lifestyle should guide your selection. Think about who will be using the lawn and how often. Is it primarily decorative? Do you have children or pets? Will the area experience heavy foot traffic?
Sir Walter
Sir Walter buffalo is a household name for a reason. It’s an all-round performer that adapts to a wide range of environments, from full sun to shaded corners. Pet owners and families alike appreciate its thick, soft blades and excellent durability. If you’re after a fuss-free, evergreen lawn that can handle a bit of everything, Sir Walter is a reliable go-to.
PetPro Buffalo
As the name suggests, PetPro Buffalo is tailored for homes with dogs and other pets. It’s durable, soft underfoot and designed to resist wear from claws and constant running. The PetPro offers quick recovery and excellent colour retention, even in high-activity zones. For households prioritising pet comfort without compromising lawn quality, PetPro Buffalo is an ideal solution.
3. Lay It Right, Maintain It Well
No matter which type you choose, installation and care make a significant impact on your lawn’s long-term performance.
Preparation
Begin with a clean and level surface. Remove weeds, debris and rocks and ensure your soil drains well. A quality underlay provides the nutrients your new grass needs to establish strong roots.
Installation
Lay it in a brick pattern, staggering the edges to minimise visible joins. Press it down to eliminate air pockets and water immediately after installation. Keep it moist for the first two to three weeks, avoiding foot traffic during this establishment period.
Ongoing Care
Different varieties have different care needs. For example, fast-growing Kenda will need more frequent mowing and edging, while slow-growing Palmetto requires less maintenance. Regardless of the type, stick to a regular mowing schedule, fertilise at least twice a year and water according to local restrictions.
If your lawn experiences shade, choose a variety like Sapphire or Sir Walter that can thrive in lower light. For high-use areas or households with pets, a durable turf like Kenda or PetPro Buffalo will reduce bare patches and minimise repair work.
The right choice balances climate compatibility, lifestyle needs and the desired look of your outdoor space. From low-maintenance options like Palmetto to pet-friendly solutions like PetPro Buffalo, there’s a lawn to suit every Australian home.
Take the time to assess your location, understand your family’s needs and invest in a variety that will grow with you — season after season. It is crucial when picking the right turf that you understand what you are looking for so you can make the best possible decision.
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