- 1). Use a spreader to fertilize evenly with a high nitrogen mix in four or five applications throughout the growing season. At the onset of winter, choose a fertilizer with a higher concentration of potassium. Bermuda lawn grass prefers a neutral pH level in the soil. If the soil tests reveal high acidity, add lime to the winter fertilizer according to label instructions for the required adjustment.
- 2). Mow the first time for the season, after any threat of frost, to cut back the dead growth on top. Cut the lawn grass short, ¾ of an inch for common Bermuda grass, and ½ of an inch for hybrid grass. The clippings from this initial cutting need to be bagged. For the remainder of the growing season, mow common Bermuda grass at a height of one to 2 inches, hybrid at a height of ½ to 1½ inches. Never remove more than a third of the height of the lawn grass when mowing.
- 3). Water Bermuda grass weekly during drought conditions. Otherwise the normal rainfall of tropical or subtropical climates should suffice if the grass doesn't appear wilted. Overwatering or watering late in the afternoon can be an invitation to disease or pests. Always water Bermuda grass early in the day.
- 4). Aerate your lawn in the spring after the grass has had a year to establish a good root system. Under normal conditions, once a year is enough. In high-traffic conditions, aerate twice a year, once in early spring and again in mid summer. Dethatching is not recommended. The creeping stems, which enable the Bermuda grass to spread out and thicken so quickly, will become shredded. By aerating regularly, any thatch that has opened and become exposed will decompose on its own.
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