What a Lawn Conversion Involves

Converting an existing lawn to buffalo grass starts with removing the current turf, typically through sod cutting or solarization depending on grass type and season, followed by soil preparation to improve drainage and root development in Austin's often thin, rocky soil. We then install buffalo grass via sod or seed depending on your timeline and budget, along with an establishment watering schedule designed to get root systems deep and strong before scaling back irrigation to buffalo grass's naturally low long-term water needs.

Realistic Expectations for a Different Kind of Lawn

Buffalo grass has a different texture and color profile than St. Augustine, a fine, soft blade and a blue-green to tan seasonal color range that goes dormant and golden in winter rather than staying green year-round. We walk every client through what to expect before installation, because the tradeoff, less water, less mowing, less fertilizer, in exchange for a more naturalistic lawn appearance, is one that suits some properties and preferences better than others.

Pairing Turf With Xeriscape Beds

Buffalo grass conversions work especially well as part of a broader xeriscape landscaping plan, providing a usable green space for kids, pets, or entertaining while surrounding beds are converted to native plants, gravel, or rain garden features. This hybrid approach is often the most practical solution for Austin families who want meaningfully lower water use without giving up all traditional lawn space.

Rebate Considerations for Turf Conversions

Because water savings from converting between grass types can be inconsistent, and people sometimes overwater drought-tolerant turf during dormancy to keep it green, Austin Water currently evaluates turf-to-turf conversions separately from native plant bed conversions for rebate purposes. We stay current on program guidelines and advise clients accurately on what qualifies before installation begins.