Buffalo turf grass is kind of the go-to for a lot of Sydney backyards these days — and honestly, it makes sense. It’s tough, doesn’t ask for much, and holds up well in both sunny spots and those awkward shady corners. If you’re putting in a fresh lawn or just trying to fix a scrappy one, buffalo gives you that thick, soft look people want. The thing is, with all the different varieties and turf types floating around, figuring out where to start is a challenge. Yeah, that part’s not always straightforward. In this guide, we break down what makes buffalo grass turf ideal for Sydney conditions — and how to get it right.

Why buffalo grass works well in Sydney's climate

Sydney’s mix of hot summers and mild winters makes it ideal turf territory — but not all grasses are created equal. Buffalo turf is particularly well-suited for our city’s climate because of its:

  • Heat and drought tolerance, perfect for sunny patches
  • Shade resilience, which means it still performs in partial shade
  • Broad leaves that crowd out weeds naturally
  • Soft texture, making it ideal for kids and pets

In short, buffalo grass holds its own in the face of Sydney’s climatic extremes. Its thick thatch also means less bare soil, and fewer spots for weeds to thrive.

Understanding buffalo grass: Not all varieties are the same

Many people are surprised to learn just how many variants of buffalo grass exist. From traditional coarse varieties to modern soft-leaf options like Sir Walter, there’s quite a bit of diversity within the species.

From the older, rougher types to newer soft-leaf ones like Sir Walter, there’s actually more variety in buffalo than most people expect. If you dig into the buffalo grass description, it’s classed as a creeping perennial — basically, it spreads out low and thick, which makes it great for stopping erosion and standing up to lots of foot traffic.

Popular types of buffalo turf in Sydney include:

Choosing the right variety depends on your yard’s sunlight, soil and foot traffic.

Preparing your soil before laying turf

Here’s where the groundwork (literally) makes all the difference.

From personal experience, I once laid buffalo turf over what I thought was “good enough” soil in my Inner West rental — only to find bald patches within weeks. A quick soil test later revealed low nutrient levels and poor drainage. Lesson learned.

Here’s how to get it right the first time:

  • Test your soil pH — Buffalo prefers a slightly acidic range (6–6.5)
  • Ensure proper drainage — Heavy clay? You might need gypsum
  • Level the surface — Use a screed or rake for even coverage
  • Apply turf underlay — A mix of sand, loam, and organic matter helps roots establish

These steps improve root penetration and help your new turf thrive.

Weed control: Prevention starts with healthy turf

Buffalo turf’s dense growth habit does most of the heavy lifting regarding weed prevention. However, no lawn is truly weed-proof, especially in the early days before the turf establishes.

Common invaders in Sydney buffalo lawns include:

  • Bindii – spiky and painful
  • Clover - thrives in nitrogen-poor soil
  • Nutgrass – fast-growing and hard to eradicate

To stay ahead:

  • Water deeply, but infrequently
  • Mow high to shade out emerging weeds
  • Spot-treat with a buffalo-safe herbicide if needed

Regular maintenance makes all the difference.

Ongoing care: How to keep your buffalo lawn thriving

Once your buffalo lawn is established, keeping it healthy comes down to consistency more than anything fancy. It doesn't need constant fussing, but skipping the basics? That’s when things start to slip. Here’s what’s worked for me (and plenty of clients over the years):

  • Mow every 1–2 weeks in summer, keeping the height above 40mm Don’t scalp it short — buffalo likes a bit of length. The extra leaf helps shade the soil, which keeps moisture in and weeds out. And always make sure the blades are sharp. Blunt ones just tear the grass and leave it looking ragged.
  • Fertilise seasonally with a slow-release NPK blend I usually go for a balanced 20-10-10 formula in spring, then something a bit lower in nitrogen come autumn. If you only feed once a year, spring is your best bet — that’s when the grass is hungry and ready to grow.
  • Water early in the morning, and only when the grass starts to wilt Overwatering is a common mistake. If your lawn bounces back when you walk on it, it’s fine. When the footprints stay, it’s time for a drink. Mornings are best, so the moisture doesn’t sit overnight and invite fungus.
  • Aerate yearly to relieve compaction Especially if the lawn gets a workout from kids or pets, I’ve used both manual corers and the old garden fork method. Either way, getting oxygen down into the root zone makes a big difference over time.

Seasonal tips

In autumn, ease back on the water as days cool down, but keep mowing to prevent thatch build-up. It’s also a good time to give your turf one last feed before winter hits.

In winter, you’ll likely mow less — maybe every 4–6 weeks. Avoid heavy traffic on frost-covered grass, and clear fallen leaves so the turf doesn’t suffocate underneath.

Come spring, lightly scalp to remove old growth and let the sun hit the crown of the grass. Follow that with a solid feed and deep water. Within a couple of weeks, you’ll see fresh green blades pushing through.

Don’t ignore early warning signs

Buffalo’s tough — but not bulletproof. Don't wait too long if you notice patches thinning out, discolouration, or stubborn weeds creeping back in. A light top-dress or pH adjustment might be all it needs.

If your lawn’s really struggling, it may be time for a more structured approach. Check out this excellent post on buffalo lawn maintenance for tips on restoring worn-out turf.

Final thoughts

For Sydney homeowners looking for a lawn that handles both kids and climate, buffalo turf is a top contender. It’s hardy without being harsh, soft underfoot, and relatively low-maintenance once established. That said, choosing the right variety and preparing your soil properly are non-negotiables. Done well, buffalo turf offers a long-lasting solution that boosts both your property value and your lifestyle. Plus, its thick mat and minimal seed head production mean less pollen in the air — a win for allergy sufferers and eco-conscious gardeners alike.