When choosing buffalo turf in Perth, two names that often get compared are Kings Pride Buffalo and Sir Walter Buffalo. While both are soft-leaf buffalo grasses, their performance is very different — especially in WA’s climate. Let’s look at how they stack up and why Sir Walter comes out on top.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Sir Walter Buffalo | Kings Pride Buffalo |
| Shade Tolerance | Excellent – thrives in up to 70% shade | Lower – needs more sun |
| Growth Habit | Dense and self-repairing | Faster growing but can thatch |
| Leaf Texture | Soft, broad, family-friendly | Softer than some buffalos but less consistent |
| Drought Resistance | Strong – performs well in Perth summers | Moderate – needs extra water in dry heat |
| Maintenance | Low – less mowing and care | Higher – grows faster, needs frequent mowing |
| Longevity | Long-lasting, proven nationwide | Can thin out over time |
| Reputation | Australia’s #1 buffalo turf | Niche choice, less widely trusted |
Why Sir Walter Buffalo Is the Smarter Choice
Sir Walter Buffalo has been Australia’s best-selling buffalo turf for over two decades, and for good reason.
- Better Shade Tolerance: Handles Perth yards with shaded spots far better than Kings Pride.
- Soft Texture: Comfortable for kids and pets, without becoming patchy.
- Lower Maintenance: Requires less mowing and fertilising than faster-growing varieties.
- Proven Toughness: Thrives in WA’s hot summers and sandy soils.
- Nationwide Reputation: Sir Walter is trusted by homeowners, landscapers, and turf professionals alike.
Pair it with a fertiliser like Baileys 3.1.1 Plus or Eco Prime Red to keep your lawn lush all year.
The Downsides of Kings Pride Buffalo
Kings Pride Buffalo is promoted as a soft-leaf variety, but it comes with several disadvantages:
- Needs More Sun: Doesn’t perform as well in shaded yards.
- Higher Maintenance: Its faster growth means more mowing and edging.
- Water Demand: Less drought tolerant, requiring more irrigation in Perth’s dry summers.
- Shorter Longevity: Can thin out and lose quality over time.
- Less Availability: Not as widely stocked in WA compared to Sir Walter.
For families wanting a low-maintenance lawn, Kings Pride ends up costing more in water and time.
Tools & Prep for Laying Sir Walter
No matter what turf you choose, preparation makes the difference. For Sir Walter, we recommend:
- Soil Conditioner – builds a strong base.
- Eco Wet Wetting Agent – helps water soak into Perth’s sandy soils.
- Complete Tools Package for smooth installation.
- Motorised Wheelbarrow for Rent if you’re tackling a large yard.
Final Word
Kings Pride Buffalo has some appeal with its softer leaf and fast growth, but those same traits bring higher maintenance and weaker drought performance.
For Perth homeowners, Sir Walter Buffalo is the stronger, more reliable choice. It’s shade-friendly, water-wise, and proven to last.
Want the lawn that’s built for WA? Get Sir Walter Buffalo Turf here and enjoy a lawn that works for your family.
