How To Get Rid Of Buffalo Grass

Buffalo grass spreads through aggressive runners that require consistent manual removal to control. If you’re wondering how to get rid of buffalo grass, you’ve come to the right place. This tough, warm-season grass can quickly take over your lawn, crowding out other plants and creating a patchy, uneven look. But don’t worry—with the right approach, you can reclaim your yard. In this guide, we’ll walk you through proven methods to remove buffalo grass for good, from manual digging to chemical treatments. Let’s get started.

Buffalo grass (Stenotaphrum secundatum) is a popular choice in some regions because it’s drought-tolerant and low-maintenance. But its aggressive growth habit makes it a nightmare for gardeners who want a uniform lawn. The key to success is understanding how it spreads and targeting its root system. Here’s what you need to know.

Understanding Buffalo Grass Growth

Buffalo grass spreads through stolons (above-ground runners) and rhizomes (underground stems). These runners can extend several feet from the main plant, making it hard to control. If you leave even a small piece of root or runner in the soil, it can regrow. That’s why a single approach rarely works—you need a multi-step plan.

The best time to tackle buffalo grass is in late spring or early summer when it’s actively growing. During this period, the plant is more vulnerable to herbicides and easier to dig out. Avoid trying to remove it in winter when the grass is dormant; you’ll just disturb the soil without killing the roots.

Now let’s get into the step-by-step methods. Choose the one that fits your situation, or combine them for best results.

Manual Removal: Digging And Pulling

Manual removal is the most environmentally friendly method, but it requires patience. Here’s how to do it right:

Water the area thoroughly a day before. Soft soil makes it easier to pull out runners.
Use a sharp spade or weeding tool to loosen the soil around the buffalo grass clump.
Gently lift the entire clump, including as many runners as possible. Follow each runner to its tip.
Shake off excess soil and place the grass in a plastic bag. Do not compost it—runners can survive in compost piles.
Repeat every 2-3 weeks for a full growing season. New runners will emerge from any remaining roots.

This method works best for small patches. If buffalo grass covers more than 10% of your lawn, manual removal alone may take years. But it’s a good start.

Solarization: Using Heat To Kill Buffalo Grass

Solarization uses the sun’s heat to cook the grass and its roots. It’s effective for large areas but takes time. Here’s the process:

Mow the area as low as possible. Remove the clippings.
Water the soil deeply. Moisture conducts heat better.
Cover the area with clear plastic sheeting (1-2 mil thick). Use rocks or soil to seal the edges.
Leave the plastic in place for 4-6 weeks during the hottest part of summer. The temperature under the plastic should reach 120-140°F.
Remove the plastic and check for any surviving grass. Repeat if needed.

Solarization kills most weeds and grass, including buffalo grass. But it also kills beneficial soil organisms, so you’ll need to amend the soil afterward. This method works best in full sun.

Chemical Herbicides: Selective And Non-Selective Options

Herbicides can be effective, but you must choose the right one. Buffalo grass is a warm-season grass, so selective herbicides that target broadleaf weeds won’t work. You need a grass-specific herbicide.

Non-selective herbicides: Products containing glyphosate (like Roundup) will kill buffalo grass and everything else. Apply carefully to avoid damaging desirable plants. Use a paintbrush to apply to individual leaves, or use a shield to protect nearby grass.

Selective herbicides: Some products contain fluazifop or sethoxydim, which target grassy weeds without harming most broadleaf plants. Check the label to ensure it’s safe for your lawn type. Apply when buffalo grass is actively growing and temperatures are between 60-85°F.

Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Wear gloves and long sleeves. Reapply after 2-3 weeks if new growth appears. Herbicides are not a one-time fix—you’ll need to monitor for regrowth.

Smothering: Blocking Light And Air

Smothering involves covering buffalo grass with materials that block sunlight. This method is slow but chemical-free. Here are some options:

Cardboard or newspaper: Lay down several layers of cardboard or thick newspaper over the area. Wet it thoroughly, then cover with mulch or soil. The grass will die within 4-6 weeks.
Landscape fabric: Use heavy-duty fabric and secure it with staples. Cut slits for desirable plants. This method works well for garden beds.
Thick mulch: Apply 4-6 inches of organic mulch like wood chips or bark. This smothers the grass but may take longer.

Smothering is ideal for areas you want to convert to garden beds or pathways. It’s not practical for lawns you want to keep.

Preventing Buffalo Grass From Returning

Once you’ve removed buffalo grass, you need to prevent it from coming back. Here are key strategies:

Improve Lawn Density

A thick, healthy lawn is the best defense. Buffalo grass struggles to compete in dense turf. Overseed with a competitive grass type suited to your climate, like tall fescue or Kentucky bluegrass. Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep roots. Fertilize according to soil test results.

Maintain Proper Mowing Height

Buffalo grass thrives when mowed too low. Keep your lawn at 3-4 inches tall. This shades the soil and reduces buffalo grass runner growth. Never remove more than one-third of the grass blade at a time.

Edge Beds And Borders

Install physical barriers like metal edging or plastic strips around garden beds. Bury them 6-8 inches deep to stop runners from crossing. Check edges regularly and pull any runners that escape.

Monitor And Act Quickly

Walk your lawn weekly during the growing season. If you spot a buffalo grass runner, pull it immediately. The earlier you catch it, the easier it is to remove. Keep a weeding tool handy for quick action.

When To Call A Professional

If buffalo grass has taken over your entire lawn, or if you’ve tried multiple methods without success, consider hiring a professional. Lawn care companies have access to stronger herbicides and equipment. They can also apply treatments at the right time for maximum effectiveness.

Professional treatment typically costs $50-150 per visit, depending on your lawn size. You may need 2-3 applications over a season. It’s an investment, but it can save you years of frustration.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

Many homeowners make these errors when trying to remove buffalo grass. Avoid them for better results:

Not removing all runners: Even a small piece left in soil can regrow. Be thorough.
Using the wrong herbicide: Broadleaf herbicides won’t touch buffalo grass. Use grass-specific products.
Applying herbicide in hot weather: Temperatures above 90°F can reduce effectiveness. Apply in cooler morning or evening.
Not following up: One treatment is rarely enough. Plan for multiple rounds over a season.
Composting removed grass: Runners can survive in compost and spread when you use it. Bag and dispose of it in the trash.

Buffalo Grass Vs. Other Grasses: Identification Tips

Before you start, make sure you’re dealing with buffalo grass. It can be confused with other warm-season grasses like Bermuda grass or St. Augustine grass. Here’s how to tell them apart:

Buffalo grass: Coarse texture, light green color, spreads via thick stolons. Leaves fold at the midrib.
Bermuda grass: Fine texture, dark green, spreads via both stolons and rhizomes. Leaves are flat and pointed.
St. Augustine grass: Broad, flat blades with rounded tips. Spreads via stolons only. Often has a blue-green tint.

If you’re unsure, take a sample to your local extension office. They can identify it for free.

Long-Term Management Plan

Removing buffalo grass is not a one-time task. It requires ongoing vigilance. Here’s a simple plan to keep it under control:

Spring: Apply pre-emergent herbicide to prevent new seeds from germinating. Spot-treat any emerging buffalo grass.
Summer: Monitor weekly. Pull or spot-spray any runners. Maintain proper mowing height.
Fall: Overseed with competitive grass. Apply fertilizer for winter hardiness.
Winter: Remove any visible runners by hand. Plan your spring strategy.

This cycle will gradually reduce buffalo grass populations. Over 2-3 years, you can achieve near-complete control.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I kill buffalo grass with vinegar?

Household vinegar (5% acetic acid) can kill young buffalo grass shoots, but it won’t affect the roots. For established plants, you need a stronger solution (20% acetic acid), which is caustic and can harm soil. It’s not a reliable long-term solution.

How long does it take to get rid of buffalo grass?

With consistent effort, you can see significant reduction in one growing season. Complete removal may take 1-2 years, depending on the method and how much you have. Manual removal is slower; herbicides can be faster but require multiple applications.

Will buffalo grass kill my other grass?

Yes, buffalo grass is aggressive and can outcompete other grasses, especially in warm climates. It spreads quickly and can create a monoculture if left unchecked. That’s why early removal is important.

Is buffalo grass bad for the environment?

Buffalo grass itself is not harmful—it’s a native plant in some regions. But it can become invasive in gardens and lawns, reducing biodiversity. Using chemical herbicides can also harm beneficial insects and soil health. Manual removal or solarization are more eco-friendly options.

Can I use a flame weeder on buffalo grass?

Flame weeders can kill the top growth, but they don’t reach the roots. Buffalo grass will regrow from underground runners. It’s not an effective method for this grass. Stick to digging or herbicides.

Final Thoughts

Getting rid of buffalo grass takes time and effort, but it’s doable. Start with the method that fits your lawn size and your comfort level. Manual removal is best for small patches, while solarization or herbicides work for larger areas. Remember to follow up regularly and prevent regrowth with a healthy lawn. With patience, you can have a buffalo grass-free yard.

If you have any questions or want to share your own tips, leave a comment below. We’d love to hear from you. Happy gardening!