Spring Lawn Care

Spring in Australia is the perfect time to bring tired lawns back to life after the cooler winter months. With warmer weather and improved soil temperatures, your lawn is ready to bounce back provided you give it the right care. Buffalo, Couch and Zoysia are three of the most common turf varieties in Queensland and across Australia, with each having its own unique care needs.

Let’s walk through seasonal care for these popular grasses, plus some general spring lawn tips, so that you can set up your turf for a lush and healthy summer.

Project by Environ Landscape Solutions

Buffalo Grass

Buffalo grass is a favourite in many Aussie backyards because of its shade tolerance and broad leaves. In spring, it naturally starts growing more actively, making it the best time to establish good gardening habits.

Mowing: Keep Buffalo a little longer than other varieties, around 40–50mm. This height helps the leaf blades capture sunlight and protects against weeds. Mow every 7–10 days during peak growth, but avoid cutting more than one-third of the leaf at a time.
Fertilising: Apply a slow release fertiliser at the start of spring, then again every 6–8 weeks. Choose a nitrogen-rich blend to encourage healthy colour and coverage.
Watering: Buffalo has a strong root system, so deep watering once or twice a week is usually enough, depending on rainfall.
Challenges: Spring can bring bindii and broadleaf weeds. Treat early with a Buffalo-safe weed control product. Keep an eye out for lawn grub activity as the weather warms.

Sir Walter Buffalo DNA Certified - Image supplied by Lawn Solutions Australia

Couch Grass

Couch grass is known for its quick recovery and preference for full sun. After a winter slowdown, it surges back with vigour in spring.

Growth patterns: Couch spreads rapidly with stolons and rhizomes, so expect strong growth once the soil warms.
Mowing: Keep Couch short (around 15–25mm) for a dense, even finish. Mow frequently to avoid scalping and encourage lateral growth.
Fertilising: Start with a complete fertiliser in early spring, followed by regular light applications every month to sustain rapid growth. High-nitrogen fertilisers help restore colour quickly.
Watering: Couch can dry out faster due to its finer leaf, so water deeply 2–3 times per week if rainfall is limited.
Challenges: Scalping is a common issue with Couch. Raise the mower height if growth has been patchy. Also, be aware of its invasive growth, as it can creep into garden beds if not edged properly.

Nullarbor Couch Grass - Image supplied by Lawn Solutions Australia

Zoysia Grass

Zoysia offers a slower growing, low-maintenance option, popular for its dense mat and natural weed resistance. It doesn’t bounce back as quickly as Couch in spring, but with the right care, it thrives into summer.

Growth and recovery: Zoysia takes longer to reach a green colour, but rewards patience with a thick and resilient lawn.
Mowing: Keep Zoysia slightly higher than Couch (about 30–40mm). Mow every 10–14 days during spring.
Fertilising: A balanced fertiliser in early spring supports recovery. Avoid overfeeding, as Zoysia doesn’t require as much nitrogen as Couch or Buffalo.
Watering: Once established, Zoysia is drought-tolerant. In spring, aim for one or two deep waterings a week.
Challenges: Thanks to its dense growth, Zoysia naturally suppresses many weeds. However, check edges for encroachment from faster-growing grasses.

General Spring Lawn Tips

No matter what turf variety you have, a few spring lawn care practices will set you up for success:

Aeration: Compacted soil from winter rains can restrict root growth. Use a garden fork or aerator to improve airflow and drainage.
Dethatching: If your lawn feels spongy, dethatch to remove built-up organic matter and help new shoots push through.

Lawn Dethatcher - Image supplied by Lawn Solutions Australia

Soil health: Top dress with a sandy loam mix to even out surfaces and improve nutrient retention.
Consistent mowing: Stick to the one-third rule for healthier turf and a tidier finish.
Seasonal products: Fertilisers, wetting agents and weed treatments are essential at this time of year.

Spring lawn care is all about giving your grass the right start so it thrives through summer. By tailoring your approach to Buffalo, Couch or Zoysia, you’ll encourage stronger roots and better resilience against pests and weeds.

At Australian Landscape Supplies, we provide everything you need from turf varieties to lawn fertilisers and soil improvers. Whether you’re a homeowner sprucing up your backyard or a landscaper preparing multiple sites, we make turf and lawn care easy.

Australian Landscape Supplies - 1/360 Fison Ave East, Eagle Farm, Brisbane

Explore our range of turf, fertilisers and soil products, and let us help you achieve the lawn you’ve been dreaming of. For expert advice and high-quality lawn care products, browse through our website or visit our Eagle Farm location today!