The Benefits of Choosing Kikuyu Grass for New Zealand Homes
Why Kikuyu Grass is the Perfect Choice for Your Lawn
If you’ve ever battled with keeping your lawn alive during summer, you know it’s no easy feat. Between harsh sun, water restrictions, and unpredictable weather, it takes a special type of grass to handle it all. Enter Kikuyu grass – the resilient, go-getter of the grass world that’s been making a name for itself across New Zealand.
Ready to give your lawn a serious upgrade? Stick around, because Newton Seeds is diving into everything you need to know about Kikuyu, from its origins to the many reasons it could be the perfect fit for your home. Let’s get growing!
A Brief History of Kikuyu Grass in New Zealand
Kikuyu grass, originally native to East Africa, found its way to New Zealand in the early 1900s. It was first introduced as a pasture grass due to its aggressive growth and ability to cover ground quickly. Over time, people began to recognise its potential as a turfgrass for residential lawns.
Fast forward to today, and Kikuyu has solidified its status as one of the go-to grass choices for warmer climates. Its ability to thrive in harsh conditions has earned it a devoted following among homeowners and landscapers alike. Whether it’s battling sandy coastal soils or soaking up the sun in wide open spaces, Kikuyu proves time and again that it’s built to last – making it an ideal match for warmer parts of New Zealand.
The Hardiness of Kikuyu Grass in New Zealand
You’ll often hear the word ‘hardy’ being tossed around when it comes to growth. When we talk about Kikuyu being "hardy," we’re referring to its ability to thrive under conditions that would challenge or even destroy other grass species.
Kikuyu’s hardiness begins with its robust root system. Unlike shallow-rooted grasses, Kikuyu sends roots deep into the soil, allowing it to access water reserves far below the surface. This is why Kikuyu remains green and lush during dry spells, while other lawns quickly brown out. Additionally, its deep roots help it anchor firmly into the soil, providing excellent resistance to erosion – a vital trait in New Zealand's often hilly or coastal terrains where heavy rains could otherwise wash soil away.
It doesn’t end there though. Kikuyu’s resilience also comes down to its ability to quickly regenerate. Even if your lawn gets damaged – say by heavy foot traffic, pets, or extreme weather – Kikuyu has a natural capacity for recovery.
Environmental Benefits of Kikuyu Grass
Kikuyu grass doesn’t just work for you; it works for the environment too. Its dense, fast-growing nature makes it particularly effective at preventing soil erosion, especially in areas prone to heavy rainfall or steep inclines. Additionally, Kikuyu grass can have positive effects on local ecosystems, offering habitat and food for a variety of insects and birds. Unlike more chemically dependent turf varieties, Kikuyu often requires fewer fertilisers and pesticides, which translates into less runoff into local water sources and a reduced impact on nearby flora and fauna.
Key environmental benefits include:
- Erosion Control: Strong root systems protect against soil erosion.
- Air Quality Improvement: Like other grasses, Kikuyu absorbs carbon dioxide and releases oxygen.
- Wildlife Habitat: Its dense growth provides cover and food for beneficial insects and birds.
- Reduced Chemical Use: Low reliance on pesticides and fertilisers makes it a more eco-friendly choice.
The Cost Effectiveness of Choosing Kikuyu Grass
Let’s be honest, everyone loves a good deal. While the initial cost of Kikuyu might be slightly higher than other seeds, you’ll definitely see long-term savings. Plus, thanks to its fast growth, you’ll need less of it to cover large areas, which can further reduce upfront costs.
Beyond installation, the long-term savings are where Kikuyu really shines. Its minimal watering requirements and reduced need for herbicides make it a budget-friendly option for lawn care. Over time, these savings add up, making Kikuyu one of the most cost-effective choices for homeowners in New Zealand. Whether you’re starting from seed or laying ready-grown turf, you can rest assured that choosing Kikuyu won’t break the bank – and the ongoing maintenance won’t either.
Tips for Choosing and Installing Your Kikuyu Lawn
Kikuyu is a great option but like all types of lawn seeds, you still need to put in a little effort to see results. Here are some practical tips to guide you through the choosing and installation process:
Selection Considerations:
- Sunlight: Kikuyu thrives in full sun but can struggle in shaded areas, so assess your lawn's sunlight exposure before planting.
- Soil Type: Ensure the soil is well-draining, as Kikuyu prefers lighter soils but can tolerate a variety of conditions.
- Foot Traffic: Kikuyu is tough, making it ideal for areas with heavy foot traffic, like backyards and recreational spaces.
Installation Steps:
- Choosing the Correct Season: The best time to sow Kikuyu is throughout the warmer months - we recommend any time between October and March.
- Soil Preparation: Start by clearing the area of weeds and debris. Loosen the soil and plant the seeds fairly shallow at about 5mm depth. For an extra boost consider adding compost or a starter fertiliser.
- Sowing Seed or Laying Turf: For a quicker establishment, laying turf is recommended. If sowing seed, spread it evenly and cover lightly with soil.
- Watering: After laying the turf or seeding, keep the soil consistently moist until the Kikuyu is fully established, typically within 6-8 weeks.
- First Mow: Once the grass has taken root and reached about 5-7 cm, give it its first light mow. This will encourage stronger growth moving forward.
By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to establishing a thriving Kikuyu lawn that will serve your home for years to come.