Bahiagrass - Variety INFO

Bahiagrass differences There are some major lawn blade "characteristics" between the two major varieties of Bahiagrass planted - Primarily leaf width and color >>>>>>.   One is wide (Argentine leaf on left) And the other one is much more narrow (Pensacola leaf on right) --  The Argentine makes the better lawn grass with generally a darker green color, but it limited in planting areas due to cold tolerance - It should only be used in very mild climates.  Pensacola can be planted further north, to as far North as Northern Georgia / Tenn. line or similar climate areas. BAHIA - Often Called Bahai.... is named after the Brazilian state of Bahia.

MAIN BAHIAGRASS TYPES

• Argentine
• Pensacola
• Tifton9
• Other Types

Varieties: Lawns & Pastures: The main commercially used varieties are Pensacola, Argentine, Tifton 9. Our pages on each variety above provide specific information on these varieties.  All varieties require frequent mowing to establish a dense sod and keep weeds from seeding. After the Bahia has tillered sufficiently it will usually crowd out weeds. Early spring mowing and some fertilization can help Bahia accomplish this task before weeds have a chance to get started. Herbicides can be applied following the guidelines on the various products. 

Argentine: Grows in the wetter and warmer areas like a true tropical grower. Preferably in higher rainfall areas.  It likes moist wet soil and will even survive in standing water for a period of time. Very prolific forage producer. Considered the BEST of the LAWN Bahias. Has a wide blade (see picture above).
- More Argentine  information

Common:  Not available commercially anymore.  This variety has basically been replaced by the improved Pensacola Bahia.   It was the lowest quality of the Bahias with poor cold tolerance and open growth characteristics providing poor density in turfgrass sod. Not suitable for lawns.

Seaside Paspalum Bahia: (P. vaginatum) - This Bahia was used for lawn areas along coastal zones.  Has a higher soil salt tolerance than other Bahia, and will grow in brackish sites and estuaries.  It is not currently available commercially as seed but will probably be in the future.  Actually a different species than the other "types" of bahiagrass.  It is available as a lawn plug or sod variety.

Paraguayan Bahia: Sometimes called Texas Bahia because of its importation from Brazil to Texas.  It has a grayish appearance on its leaves and is similar to Argentine Bahia in overall appearance and characteristics.  Its low cold-hardiness and disease resistance make it less desirable than Argentine and Pensacola Bahia.  Mostly used for pasture purposes in wetter areas. Only occasionally available.

Wilmington Bahia: A fine leaf Bahia similar in leaf quality to Pensacola Bahia.  Does not produce viable seeds in commercial quantities.   Considered to have a better turf quality than the Pensacola varieties along with most cold-tolerance of the bahias.  Discovered near Wilmington NC after importation from Brazil. No longer commercially produced.