For best results, buffalograss should not be seeded after August 1 in eastern Nebraska and August 15 in western Nebraska. Trials conducted in southeast Nebraska indicated rates of 1 to 3 lb of burrs per 1,000 sq ft, seeded in early June, produced fully covered stands by mid-September. Unless the season is unusually wet, irrigation must be applied to assure uniform germination and growth during the establishment phase. Be sure to specify that you want primed seed. Primed seed has been soaked or treated with KNO3, a relatively non-toxic salt, to help soften the seed coat, which breaks down dormancy.
Plugs are helpful when early landscape aesthetics or soil stabilization are important.
Spacing between plugs can be varied, depending upon how quickly full coverage is desired. Vegetative plugs should not be placed farther apart than 24 inches on center. If site conditions and preparation are expected to be less than optimal, the placement interval should be reduced to provide a full stand within the first growing season. During establishment, it is important to keep weeds to a minimum to avoid their competing for moisture, nutrients, light and space. Periodically mowing the new turf stand at a 2 to 3 inch height will help minimize weed competition.