How to Choose the Right Turf for Your Lawn

Thinking about refreshing your outdoor space but unsure which turf will suit it best? Choosing the right lawn goes beyond aesthetics—it impacts maintenance, longevity, and how well your yard holds up under everyday use. Whether you're laying new turf for a front garden or renovating a large backyard, selecting a suitable grass variety is key to getting the result you want.



In this blog, we’ll explore how to choose the right turf for your lawn, compare popular options like buffalo and kikuyu, and discuss why your local climate and soil conditions matter.

Climate & Turf Compatibility

Soil Type & Drainage Needs

Understanding your soil is another foundational step in choosing the best turf. Sandy soils drain well but may not retain nutrients. Clay-heavy soils hold more water but can become compacted, limiting root growth.

Some turf varieties, like kikuyu, can tolerate poorer soils and recover quickly from wear. Others, like buffalo, perform better in richer, loam-based soils but also tolerate moderate shade and uneven drainage. If you're unsure of your soil profile, it’s worth conducting a soil test or seeking professional advice before installation.

Lifestyle & Lawn Usage

Think about how you plan to use your lawn. Is it a high-traffic area where kids and pets will play? Or are you after a low-maintenance front yard that adds kerb appeal?



Different grasses suit different levels of activity. Kikuyu is fast-growing and recovers quickly from damage, making it ideal for active families. Buffalo grass is known for its broad leaves and soft feel, offering a more polished look while still tolerating moderate wear.

Buffalo vs Kikuyu: Key Differences

While both buffalo and kikuyu are popular turf options in Ulladulla, their characteristics vary in several key areas.

Buffalo Grass

• Shade Tolerance: Handles up to 70% shade, making it suitable for backyards with trees or buildings nearby.
• Growth Rate: Slower-growing, reducing the frequency of mowing.
• Texture: Broad, soft leaves that are gentle underfoot.
• Maintenance: Requires less frequent mowing and edging but benefits from regular feeding.
• Appearance: Dense coverage with a deep green colour.

Kikuyu Grass

• Sunlight Needs: Requires full sun for healthy growth and does not perform well in shade.
• Growth Rate: Fast-growing and vigorous, meaning more frequent mowing is required.
• Texture: Finer leaves, but can feel slightly coarse.
• Maintenance: Requires regular mowing and edging to keep growth in check.
• Appearance: Bright green colour and resilient surface for high-traffic areas.
  

Maintenance is a crucial factor when selecting turf. While some homeowners enjoy regular lawn care, others prefer a more hands-off approach.

Buffalo grass suits those looking for a manageable lawn with occasional mowing and feeding. Its slower growth means less trimming, and it maintains a neat look with little effort. Kikuyu, on the other hand, grows quickly and spreads aggressively. This can be great for covering large areas quickly, but it requires consistent upkeep to avoid overgrowth.

Not all lawns receive the same amount of sunlight. If your lawn is partially shaded by trees, fences or buildings, turf like buffalo is more suitable due to its shade tolerance.



Kikuyu struggles in low-light areas and may become thin or patchy if planted in shaded spaces. For full-sun locations such as open front yards or wide backyards, kikuyu may be a suitable choice due to its vigorous growth and resilience.

Water availability is another factor worth considering. While both buffalo and kikuyu can withstand periods of low rainfall once established, kikuyu has a slight edge when it comes to drought recovery.



That said, buffalo grass tends to conserve moisture more efficiently due to its thick leaf structure and dense coverage, reducing evaporation and helping the soil beneath retain water longer.

A thick, healthy lawn naturally prevents weeds from taking hold. Buffalo grass forms a dense mat that leaves little room for weed growth, making it a great option for those looking to minimise herbicide use.



Kikuyu is less dense but grows quickly, helping it compete well against weeds. However, because of its fast-spreading nature, kikuyu may also invade garden beds if not contained properly. Regular edging and clear garden borders can help manage this.

A lawn’s look is often the final deciding factor. Buffalo grass is lush and broad-leafed, creating a soft and formal finish. Kikuyu has a finer texture and a lighter green hue, lending a more natural, casual appearance.



Both turf types can add value and appeal to your outdoor space, but your personal preference for colour, leaf shape, and finish will guide your final decision.

Cost differences between buffalo and kikuyu can also impact your choice. Kikuyu is generally more budget-friendly upfront due to faster cultivation and widespread availability. It establishes quickly, which may lower installation time and labour costs.



Buffalo may come with a higher price tag, but offers long-term value through reduced maintenance and consistent appearance. Depending on the size of your lawn and your overall landscaping budget, the cost difference may influence your selection.

Choosing turf isn’t just about picking a popular variety—it’s about selecting the grass that works best for your specific environment, soil, and lifestyle. That’s why turning to a local supplier in Ulladulla makes a difference.



Local knowledge means tailored guidance based on the area’s unique conditions, such as coastal weather patterns, sandy or loamy soils, and seasonal growth cycles. From preparation to installation, having access to expert insight can help your new lawn thrive year-round.

At Southern Turf, we supply high-quality turf varieties suited to Ulladulla’s climate and soil conditions. Whether you’re considering buffalo, kikuyu, or another option, our team can help you choose the right lawn for your needs. Contact us today to explore our turf range and get expert support from start to finish.