Bermuda Grass Fundamentals
Most aggressive spreading grass in the US. Loves heat (85-90°F ideal). Requires 8+ hours full sun daily. Roots can reach 60 inches deep (most lawns 8-16 inches). Grows via rhizomes (underground) and stolons (above ground). Both have nodes — reproductive points that grow new plants. Ideal pH 6.0-6.5. Hybrid Bermuda has fine dense blades (sold as sod/plugs), common Bermuda has thick coarse blades (sold as seed). DO NOT overseed hybrid sod with cheap common Bermuda seed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between common and hybrid bermuda?
Hybrid bermuda has fine, dense blades and is sold as sod or plugs. Common bermuda has thicker, coarser blades and is available as seed. Never overseed hybrid sod with common bermuda seed.
How much sun does bermuda need?
Bermuda requires at least 8 hours of full sun per day. There is no truly shade-tolerant bermuda variety. Shaded areas will always be weaker regardless of fertilizer or care.
What pH does bermuda grass prefer?
Bermuda performs best at a soil pH of 6.0 to 6.5. Test your soil annually and adjust with lime if pH is too low or sulfur if too high.
How deep do bermuda roots grow?
Bermuda roots can reach up to 60 inches deep, though most residential lawns see roots at 8-16 inches. This deep root system gives bermuda excellent drought tolerance compared to other grasses.
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