How a university-bred turf variety is helping homeowners achieve lush, low-maintenance lawns while conserving precious water resources
The American Lawn Dilemma
For decades, homeowners have sacrificed time, money, and water to maintain the perfect Kentucky bluegrass lawn—an ecological mismatch for much of the American West. The average suburban lawn consumes 45-75% more water than native grasses require, while demanding weekly mowing, seasonal fertilizing, and constant weed control.
Many turn to artificial turf or gravel yards as alternatives, sacrificing the cooling benefits and natural beauty of real grass. Others attempt traditional buffalo grass seeds, only to struggle with patchy results and pollen-heavy varieties that aggravate allergies.
University of Nebraska agronomists developed Legacy® Buffalo Grass Plugs as a third way—combining the drought resistance of native prairie grasses with the lush appearance homeowners desire. This award-winning cultivar represents a breakthrough in sustainable landscaping.
Why Legacy® Stands Apart
The Science Behind the Green
Unlike seed-grown buffalo grass, Legacy® is propagated from cuttings, ensuring genetic consistency and eliminating the pollen problems of conventional varieties. Its deep root system (reaching 6-8 feet in mature plants) taps into subsoil moisture, while the dense growth pattern naturally suppresses weeds.
The grass contains specialized C4 photosynthesis pathways that optimize water use efficiency—a trait refined through selective breeding to maintain vibrant color longer than other buffalo grasses (typically staying green until late October in most climates).
Head-to-Head With Conventional Turf
| Feature | Legacy® Buffalo | Kentucky Bluegrass |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Water Needs | 2 inches | 4-6 inches |
| Mowing Frequency | 3-5 times/year | Weekly |
| Fertilizer Needs | Minimal | Seasonal |
| Foot Traffic Tolerance | High | Medium |
From Struggle to Sustainable Solution
Meet Sarah K., a Colorado homeowner who transformed her water-guzzling yard:
“After years of watching my water bill climb and still ending up with brown patches every summer, I nearly gave up and paved my yard. Then I found Legacy® plugs. Within three months of planting, I had a full lawn that stays green with minimal watering. My neighbors can’t believe it’s buffalo grass—it looks so lush!”
Ideal Growing Conditions
Legacy® thrives in areas receiving 10-30 inches of annual rainfall at elevations below 6,500 feet. It performs exceptionally well in:
- Clay-heavy soils where other grasses struggle
- Full sun locations (minimum 6 hours direct sunlight)
- Regions with hot summers and mild winters
The grass spreads rapidly via stolons (above-ground runners), with plugs planted 12″ apart typically filling in within 90 days. For quicker coverage, plant at 6″ spacing for full lawn establishment in about 60 days.
When to Consider Alternatives
While remarkably adaptable, Legacy® isn’t ideal for:
- Heavily shaded areas (consider shade-tolerant fescues instead)
- Pure sand soils (Blue Grama grass performs better)
- High elevation gardens with short, cool summers
- Coastal areas with salt spray exposure
Each flat contains 70 plugs covering 70 sq. ft. at standard spacing—approximately two-thirds the cost of equivalent buffalo grass sod while offering superior establishment rates compared to seeded varieties.
The Planting Process Simplified
Season: Plant from late spring through early fall when soil temperatures exceed 60°F
Preparation: Remove existing vegetation and lightly till soil to 4-6″ depth
Planting: Place plugs at chosen spacing, firming soil around each plug
Watering: Keep moist (not soggy) for first 2-3 weeks, then gradually reduce
Maintenance: Mow to 3-4″ height 2-3 times per season; no fertilizer needed in most soils
The Bigger Picture
Choosing Legacy® Buffalo Grass Plugs represents more than a landscaping decision—it’s an environmental commitment. In drought-prone regions, converting just 1,000 sq. ft. of conventional lawn to Legacy® can save 25,000+ gallons of water annually. The reduction in mowing frequency cuts carbon emissions, while the elimination of fertilizers protects watersheds.
As water restrictions become commonplace across the American West, this university-developed turf alternative offers homeowners a practical solution that doesn’t sacrifice beauty for sustainability. The grass’s soft texture and deep green color provide the aesthetic appeal communities expect, while its ecological benefits align with growing environmental awareness.
For those ready to break free from the endless cycle of watering, mowing, and fertilizing, Legacy® Buffalo Grass Plugs offer a proven path to a lower-maintenance, water-conscious lawn that thrives in challenging conditions where conventional turf grasses fail.
Legacy® is a registered trademark of the University of Nebraska. Green Thumb Award Winner 2001.
Article contains affiliate links. All information accurate at time of publication.