Best Blades for Bahia Grass / Others

Spike56 · Jun 9, 2022

Any advice on blades that will better handle grass with stems ? I am considering "gator blades" which I had on my previous mower, but perhaps there are better options ? In general the stock blades will get the job done, but I have to re-mow some areas to get it all.

jaxs · Jun 9, 2022

I've primarily cut Bahai with a hay swather for baling but it's 1st cousin Dallis Grass isn't difficult unless allowed to age. A sickle bar mower might be what you are looking for. If someone came up with hybrid Dallis Grass that didn't have the seed head they could patent it as low maintenance turf and become wealthy.

LittleBittyBigJohn · Jun 9, 2022

I have never been a fan of gator blades. I prefer a good high lift blade. Stems are difficult for whatever you are cutting with. Good sharp blades, high blade tip speed, and a properly adjusted deck are the best you are going to do for the stems.

Spike56 · Jun 10, 2022

jaxs said:
I've primarily cut Bahai with a hay swather for baling but it's 1st cousin Dallis Grass isn't difficult unless allowed to age. A sickle bar mower might be what you are looking for. If someone came up with hybrid Dallis Grass that didn't have the seed head they could patent it as low maintenance turf and become wealthy.

You got that right. Even Bahia without seed heads would be a winner, at least here in E. Central Texas. Years ago, I planted a small area with what was called Prairie Buffalo (I think 409). Where it is growing you could mow only once / year. Unfortunately, the claimed at the time, will spread and cover did not pan out. So, still some there, but it did not do well enough here to try again. Not even certain you can get this anymore.
I am looking into Zoysia tenuifolia, but I doubt this is suitable. I'd be happy to choke out my Bahai and KR Bluestem with the Bermuda that is prevalent in the yard. I normally spray 1-2 year to keep the Bahai in check.