Kikuyu Grass
This male sterile variety of Kikuyu is vigorous in growth and tolerant of heavy traffic and drought conditions
This creeping perennial has stolons and rhizomes with above and below ground runners. It is a vigorous, light green grass with flattened clubs and takes root from its lower nodes. Kikuyu has a high wearability, especially when grown in full sun and good ability to recuperate. It has a high teaching tendency and is quick to establish.
Kikuyu originated in the East African highlands. Its common name was derived in 1903 from the Kikuyu people of Kenya who traditionally lived east of the Aberdare Mountains where the grass thrives. Kikuyu was introduced to Australia by seed in 1919 and then propagated vegetatively for more than 50 years.
Kikuyu does not particularly like saline soils, but grows well on any well-drained fertile soil. It has a wide adaptability but does prefer moist, medium textured soils. Kikuyu is usually intolerant of shade. This variety has high cold and frost tolerance and strong resistance to disease and weeds.
Kikuyu will hold colour well in most conditions. It makes an especially good lawn on large areas and is one of the most economical turfs. Commonly used domestically and commercially. Extremely pet tolerant.
Ongoing Turf Maintenance
The recommendations are for established lawns only, to ensure good health and the best possible colour year round. These recommendations are averages and should be used as a guide. Situations vary according to soil conditions, location, water pressure etc. The visual appearance of your lawn will become your best guide.
Mowing
No more than 30-40% of the leaf should be removed in any one mow. Keep mower blades sharp and do not cut wet grass. Mowing height is an important factor in promoting healthy lawn. Kikuyu is best kept between 30-40mm throughout the year.
Scarifying if necessary, best carried out between October and December.
In summer, mow every 7 days. During autumn and winter, every 2 weeks, only if necessary. A regular rotary mower can be used.
Watering:
Save time and money on your water bill by installing a controlled sprinkler system.
Kikuyu can tolerate severe drought conditions once established. Watering to maintain a healthy green appearance:
Summer – over 35 degrees 3 times a fortnight 1hr per shift other times 1 hr per week
Autumn and spring – cut back depending on the weather for more information call hicks turf
Winter – only if necessary
3 times per week for 15 minutes 1 time per week for 20 minutes
Fertilising
Apply four applications of fertilizer a year from our specialty range. Reduced growth, paleness of colour and weeds may indicate your lawn is lacking nutrition. Ask for a copy of our Kikuyu fertilising program.
Weed Control
For best results with weedicides, promote growth by fertilising 14 days ahead and do not mow for 48 hours prior to spraying. Broadleaf sprays control Clover, Bindii and Broadleaf weeds including Paterson’s Curse (Salvation Jane) and should be applied before flowering at the end of July as a preventative.
To control Black Beetle, Mole Cricket and grass-eating caterpillars in lawns, use a recognised Lawn Grub Killer each spring, as a preventative.
Wintergrass control – apply annually between April and August.
All fertiliser and turf care products can be purchased at Hicks Instant Turf and are available for home delivery.
Downloads
Kikuyu Grass (180KB – PDF)
