At a Glance
- If you’re looking for an alternative to traditional grass, or simply want to add a unique element to your outdoor space, learning how to plant buffalo runners is a worthwhile endeavor.
- These are pre-established sections of buffalo runner plants that are ready to be laid down and will quickly fill in the area.
- If you’re using buffalo runners as a lawn alternative, mow them regularly to maintain a desired height.
Buffalo runners, also known as Dichondra repens, offer a stunning, low-maintenance ground cover that can transform your lawn or garden. Their velvety, emerald-green foliage creates a lush, carpet-like effect, suppressing weeds and adding a touch of elegance to any landscape. If you’re looking for an alternative to traditional grass, or simply want to add a unique element to your outdoor space, learning how to plant buffalo runners is a worthwhile endeavor. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, from choosing the right location to ensuring healthy growth.
Understanding Buffalo Runners: A Closer Look
Buffalo runners are a perennial, creeping vine that thrives in warm climates. Their adaptability and fast-growing nature make them an ideal choice for various applications, including:
- Ground Cover: They effectively suppress weeds and create a beautiful, low-maintenance lawn alternative.
- Erosion Control: Their dense growth helps stabilize slopes and prevent soil erosion.
- Accent Plant: Their cascading foliage adds a touch of elegance to hanging baskets, containers, and rock gardens.
Choosing the Right Location: Setting the Stage for Success
Before embarking on your buffalo runner planting journey, it’s crucial to select the perfect location. These thriving plants need specific conditions to flourish:
- Sunlight: Buffalo runners thrive in partial shade to full sun. Avoid planting them in areas with intense, direct sunlight, especially during the hottest part of the day.
- Soil: They prefer well-drained, fertile soil with a slightly acidic pH (6.0-6.5). Amend the soil with compost or peat moss to improve its drainage and nutrient content.
- Moisture: Buffalo runners need consistent moisture, especially during the establishment phase. Ensure the soil remains evenly moist but not waterlogged.
Preparing the Planting Area: Laying the Foundation
Once you’ve chosen the ideal location, it’s time to prepare the planting area:
1. Clear the Area: Remove any existing vegetation, weeds, and debris.
2. Loosen the Soil: Till the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches to improve drainage and aeration.
3. Amend the Soil: Incorporate compost or peat moss to enhance soil fertility and drainage.
Planting Buffalo Runners: The Heart of the Process
Now comes the exciting part – planting the buffalo runners! Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Choose Your Method: Buffalo runners can be planted from seed, plugs, or mats.
- Seeds: Sowing seeds is the most budget-friendly option, but it requires more patience as it takes longer for them to establish.
- Plugs: These are small, pre-grown plants that offer faster establishment and a higher success rate.
- Mats: These are pre-established sections of buffalo runner plants that are ready to be laid down and will quickly fill in the area.
2. Spacing: Plant buffalo runners 6-12 inches apart, depending on the density you desire.
3. Planting Depth: Plant seeds or plugs about 1/4 inch deep in the soil.
4. Watering: Thoroughly water the newly planted buffalo runners to help them establish roots.
Post-Planting Care: Nurturing Growth
After planting, providing consistent care is crucial for the healthy growth of your buffalo runners:
- Watering: Water regularly, especially during the first few weeks after planting. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilizing: Feed your buffalo runners with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
- Weeding: Regularly remove any weeds that may compete with your buffalo runners for nutrients and sunlight.
- Mowing: If you’re using buffalo runners as a lawn alternative, mow them regularly to maintain a desired height.
Troubleshooting Common Issues: Addressing Challenges
Like any plant, buffalo runners can encounter certain challenges. Here’s how to address common issues:
- Yellowing Leaves: This could indicate overwatering, underwatering, or nutrient deficiency.
- Brown Spots: These can be caused by fungal diseases or excessive sun exposure.
- Slow Growth: This could be due to poor soil drainage, lack of nutrients, or insufficient sunlight.
Reaping the Rewards: Enjoying the Lush Beauty
With proper care and attention, your buffalo runners will thrive, transforming your landscape into a lush, verdant paradise. Their dense, velvety foliage provides a stunning visual appeal, while their low-maintenance nature ensures you can enjoy their beauty without constant upkeep.
Beyond the Basics: Exploring Creative Applications
Buffalo runners offer endless possibilities beyond traditional ground cover. Here are some creative ways to incorporate them into your landscape:
- Hanging Baskets: Their cascading foliage adds a touch of elegance to hanging baskets, creating a stunning display.
- Container Gardens: Plant them in containers to add a unique element to your patio or balcony.
- Rock Gardens: Their dense growth complements the natural beauty of rock gardens, adding a touch of softness.
FAQs: Addressing Your Questions
Q: How long does it take for buffalo runners to establish?
A: Buffalo runners typically take 6-8 weeks to establish a dense, carpet-like cover.
Q: Can buffalo runners grow in shade?
A: While buffalo runners prefer partial shade to full sun, they can tolerate some shade. However, they may grow more slowly and produce less foliage in heavily shaded areas.
Q: Are buffalo runners invasive?
A: Buffalo runners are not considered invasive in most regions. However, it’s essential to monitor their growth and prune them back if necessary to prevent them from spreading beyond the desired area.
Q: How do I overwinter buffalo runners?
A: Buffalo runners are hardy in USDA zones 7-10. In colder climates, they may die back in winter but will return in spring. You can protect them by applying a layer of mulch over the planting area.
Q: Can I use buffalo runners as a lawn alternative?
A: Absolutely! Buffalo runners are an excellent option for a low-maintenance, weed-suppressing lawn alternative. They require less mowing and watering than traditional grass, making them a sustainable choice.
The Final Word: Embracing the Beauty of Buffalo Runners
Planting buffalo runners is a rewarding experience that brings a touch of elegance and low-maintenance beauty to your landscape. With this comprehensive guide, you’re equipped with the knowledge to choose the right location, prepare the planting area, and provide the necessary care to ensure your buffalo runners thrive. Embrace the lush beauty they offer, and enjoy the benefits of this versatile and stunning ground cover.
