When it comes to Perth backyards, Buffalo and Kikuyu often top the list. Both are hardy, popular, and suited to local conditions. But they’re far from identical.
Choosing the right one is about more than just looks. It’s about how you’ll use your outdoor space, how much upkeep you’re up for, and how it handles sun, shade and the chaos of everyday life.
So let’s get into it and break down the major differences between Buffalo vs Kikuyu so you can pick a lawn that stays lush, green and ready for everything from barefoot afternoons to backyard cricket matches.
A quick grass guide: Buffalo vs Kikuyu
Buffalo Grass
Buffalo is a soft, broad-leafed grass with a rich, deep green colour. It’s so inviting, you’ll want to kick off your shoes and sink your toes in. Plus, its slow growth means less weekend mowing and more time for coffee, kid or simply kicking back.
Buffalo also handles shade tremendously well. So if your backyard has trees, pergolas or cosy seating spots, Buffalo keeps looking good without demanding constant upkeep.
Kikuyu Grass
Kikuyu is the tough, go-getter of grasses. Fast-growing and super hardy, it thrives in Perth’s heat and bounces back from all kinds of action. What kind of action? Kids racing around, pets zooming about, or an impromptu backyard soccer game-it can handle all this excitement, and some.
Just keep an eye on it, because it spreads fast if you don’t tame it. If you want a lawn that can take the chaos of everyday life and still look green and vibrant, Kikuyu’s your best choice.
Buffalo vs Kikuyu: What’s the difference?
So, you’ve met Buffalo and Kikuyu. Both are great lawn options, but each has its own personality. Here’s how they stack up so you can figure out which one suits your backyard lifestyle best:
1. Best for your lifestyle
Buffalo:
A great match for laid-back backyards where looks and comfort take priority. If your lawn is more about relaxing than roughhousing, Buffalo fits right in.
Kikuyu:
Brilliant for households that use their lawn frequently. Kids, pets, weekend kick-arounds—Kikuyu thrives on activity and keeps coming back for more.
2. Mowing & upkeep commitment
Buffalo:
Takes things at a slower pace. What does that look like? Fewer mowing sessions and less time spent fussing over edges.
Kikuyu:
Grows with undeniable enthusiasm. You’ll need to mow and edge more often, but the payoff is a lawn that fills in quickly and stays dense.
3. Watering behaviour
Buffalo:
Once it’s settled in, it prefers a good, deep drink rather than frequent top-ups.
Kikuyu:
Handles the heat well, but during dry spells, it appreciates more regular watering to stay looking its best.
4. Sun vs shade performance
Buffalo:
Copes well in areas that don’t get full sun all day, making it a fantastic option for mixed-light yards.
Kikuyu:
Loves open spaces and direct sunlight. Give it plenty of sun and it’ll reward you with strong growth.
5. Recovery from wear
Buffalo:
Holds its shape nicely, but needs a bit of time to bounce back after heavy use.
Kikuyu:
Quick to recover and ready to go again, even after a tough workout from kids or pets.
6. Control & containment
Buffalo:
Generally well-behaved and easier to keep neatly contained around garden beds.
Kikuyu:
Very enthusiastic about spreading, so regular edging keeps it from taking over.
Making the right choice for your backyard
When choosing between Buffalo and Kikuyu, ask yourself a few simple questions:
- Who uses your lawn, and how often? A quiet backyard with gentle foot traffic leans toward Buffalo. A high-energy family playground? Kikuyu’s your best friend.
- How much sun does your lawn get? Shady spots favour Buffalo. Open, sunny spaces are Kikuyu territory.
- How much maintenance can you handle? Less mowing? Go Buffalo. Don’t mind a bit more upkeep for quick recovery? Kikuyu will keep up with the action.
Laying your lawn and keeping it happy
Getting your lawn in the ground and looking its best is actually much easier than you might imagine. With a little planning, you’ll have a backyard that’s green, healthy and perfect for whatever life throws at it.
Best time to install
Spring through early summer is your golden window. The soil is warming, growth is ready to kick off, and your new lawn has time to establish strong roots before the scorching heat hits.
Seasonal care made simple
Buffalo:
- Apply a light fertiliser in early summer to keep it thriving.
- Water deeply but infrequently. To make it simple, think long drinks, not constant sips.
- Minimal upkeep means more time to enjoy your lush, soft lawn.
Kikuyu:
- Mow regularly during growth spurts to keep it neat.
- Water consistently, especially in Perth’s heat.
- Edge often to control its fast-spreading habit.
- Quick upkeep keeps this tough, active lawn looking sharp.
Time to bring your backyard lawn dreams to life
You’ve explored the differences between Buffalo and Kikuyu, and now it’s time to bring your dream lawn to life!
Whether you want the soft, shaded luxury of Buffalo or the tough, high-energy resilience of Kikuyu, Luke’s Landscaping can help you plan, install and care for a lawn that suits your lifestyle, and looks incredible doing it.Ready to stop imagining and start enjoying a lawn that works for your lifestyle? Get in touch today and let’s make it happen!
Buffalo vs Kikuyu FAQs
1. Which lawn is better for pets and kids?
Kikuyu is tough and fast-growing, so it can handle running, games and pet activity much better. Buffalo is softer underfoot but slower to recover from heavy wear.
While technically possible, mixed lawns can create uneven growth patterns and maintenance challenges. Luke’s Landscaping can advise if a hybrid approach might work for your property.
Buffalo requires moderate deep watering, especially in summer. Kikuyu is hardy in full sun but will need regular watering to stay healthy during prolonged dry spells.
Luke’s Landscaping offers expert assessments of sunlight, soil and intended usage to recommend the best plants or turf, including the ideal choice between Buffalo vs Kikuyu.
