How to Grow Buffalograss
iNaturalist
Buffalograss
Bouteloua dactyloides
grassBuffalograss is a native short-grass prairie species found throughout the Great Plains of North America. It is a warm-season, drought-tolerant perennial grass that grows 4-6 inches tall and produces distinctive finger-like seed heads. This hardy grass is increasingly used for sustainable lawns and native plantings due to its minimal water and maintenance requirements.
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Example Buffalograss timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Buffalograss
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Buffalograss
Around Aug 15≈ 120 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Buffalograss dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 4-8, particularly well-suited to the Great Plains (zones 5-7)
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Get my Buffalograss timeline →Growth Stages
Germination
1-2 weeksSeeds begin sprouting within 7-14 days of planting when soil temperatures reach 65-70°F
Keep soil consistently moist (not waterlogged) during this stage. Avoid foot traffic. Apply light shade cloth in extreme heat.
Seedling & Establishment
4-8 weeksYoung grass develops 2-4 leaves and shallow root systems; plants are 1-2 inches tall
Continue regular moisture during first 4-6 weeks. Delay mowing until grass reaches 3 inches. Keep weed-free by removing competitive plants manually.
Vegetative Growth
8-16 weeksRoot systems deepen and expand; shoots multiply to fill in the turf; grass reaches mature height of 4-6 inches
Reduce watering frequency as drought tolerance increases. Begin mowing regimen if desired (maintain 2-3 inch height). Minimal fertilizer needed.
Flowering & Seed Production
8-12 weeksPlants produce distinctive two-pronged (digitate) seed heads in mid-to-late summer; flowers appear tan to reddish
Cease mowing if seed production is desired. Allow plants to mature naturally. Do not fertilize; high nitrogen delays flowering.
Dormancy
5-6 monthsGrass turns golden-brown in fall and enters winter dormancy; retains structure and provides erosion control
Cease watering except during extended drought. Do not fertilize. Dormant grass provides good wildlife cover. Spring green-up begins when soil temps exceed 65°F.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Rarely problematic on native grass; allow natural predators to manage. Use neem oil if severe.
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Infrequent on buffalograss. Maintain adequate moisture; predatory insects control populations naturally.
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Rare on drought-tolerant buffalograss. Ensure good soil health and avoid overwatering.
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May appear during drought stress; overhead irrigation or increased moisture reduces populations.
Uses
Sustainable Lawn Alternative
HouseholdBuffalograss creates a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant lawn requiring minimal water, fertilizer, and mowing compared to traditional turf grasses. It is ideal for xeriscape landscaping and conservation-minded homeowners in arid and semi-arid regions. [source]
Native Prairie Habitat
WildlifeBuffalograss is a keystone species in native prairie ecosystems, providing food and cover for prairie birds, bison, and native insects. Plantings support pollinators and songbirds while restoring ecological integrity. [source]
Erosion Control & Stabilization
HouseholdThe deep root systems of buffalograss (reaching 10-12 feet) prevent soil erosion, improve water infiltration, and stabilize slopes and disturbed areas. It is valuable for remediation and bank stabilization projects. [source]
Traditional Indigenous Food
CulinaryHistoric Plains tribes harvested buffalograss seeds as a nutritious grain staple. The seeds are protein-rich and can be ground into flour or eaten whole, representing a heritage food crop gaining renewed interest. [source]
Decorative & Craft Material
CraftThe distinctive dried seed heads and golden foliage are used in dried flower arrangements, wreaths, and ornamental displays. The natural aesthetic provides visual interest in autumn and winter landscapes. [source]
Harvest Tips
Buffalograss is not typically harvested for hay or grain due to its short stature and minimal yield. However, seed can be collected by allowing plants to flower and mature fully in late summer (August-September), then harvesting by hand-raking or mechanical collection when seed heads are brown and dry. Seeds are viable and can be stored dry at room temperature for future propagation.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Buffalograss is named for the American bison (buffalo) that historically grazed on the Great Plains; it was a primary forage species for massive buffalo herds numbering in the tens of millions.
- 🌱 A single mature buffalograss plant can develop roots extending 10-12 feet deep, making it extraordinarily drought-resistant and allowing it to access water far below the surface where annual droughts cannot reach.
- 🌱 The distinctive two-pronged seed heads resemble miniature fingers, earning the scientific name 'dactyloides' (from the Greek word 'daktylos' meaning finger).
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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