Blog Dormancy for Bermuda Lawns Jan 17, 2024

Dormancy for Bermuda Lawns

As the weather cools down and winter approaches, it's important to understand how to properly care for your Bermuda lawn during dormancy. While Bermuda grass is known for its excellent heat tolerance and ability to thrive in hot climates, it does go dormant during the winter months. Here are some tips and tricks to help your Bermuda lawn survive dormancy and come back strong when spring arrives.

Understanding Dormancy

Bermuda grass is a warm-season grass that thrives in temperatures between 75-90 degrees Fahrenheit. When temperatures drop below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, the grass will start to go dormant. Dormancy is a natural survival mechanism for the grass, allowing it to conserve energy during times of stress. While the grass may turn brown during dormancy, it is not dead and will return to its vibrant green color once the weather warms up.

Limit Watering

During dormancy, Bermuda grass requires less water than during its active growing season. Reduce your watering schedule to once every two weeks, if even that much considering you may be getting substantially enough rainfall in that amount of time. Be sure to water deeply when you do water, allowing the water to penetrate the soil and reach the grass's root system. This will encourage deeper root growth and help the grass withstand winter conditions.

Avoid Heavy Foot Traffic

Bermuda grass is more susceptible to damage during dormancy, so it's important to avoid heavy foot traffic on the lawn. Walking or playing on the grass can cause stress and potentially lead to damage or thinning. If possible, try to redirect foot traffic to other areas or create temporary pathways to protect the grass during this vulnerable time.

Mowing and Fertilization

During dormancy, your Bermuda grass does not require regular mowing or fertilization. Instead, focus on keeping the lawn free of debris and leaves that can potentially smother the grass. If necessary, you can lightly mow the grass once a month at a higher setting to help with debris removal.

Prevent Weed Growth

While your Bermuda grass is dormant, it is more susceptible to weed invasion. Keep an eye out for any weeds and remove them as soon as possible to prevent them from spreading. You can also apply a pre-emergent herbicide in late fall or early winter to prevent weed germination and growth.

Prepare for Spring

As winter comes to an end and temperatures begin to warm up, it's time to start preparing your Bermuda lawn for spring. Begin by slowly increasing your watering schedule to encourage new growth. You can also lightly rake the lawn to remove any remaining dead grass or debris. Once the grass starts to green up, it's safe to resume regular mowing and fertilization.

In conclusion, dormancy is a natural process for Bermuda grass during the winter months. By following these tips and properly caring for your lawn during dormancy, you can ensure that your Bermuda grass will come back strong and vibrant when spring arrives. Remember to limit watering, avoid heavy foot traffic, remove weeds, and prepare for spring to help your lawn thrive year after year.

For professional lawn care services, contact Earth First Turf, LLC. We specialize in Bermuda lawn care and can help you maintain a healthy and beautiful lawn all year round. Get in touch today to schedule an appointment!