Extended Dormancy of Warm Season Grass
Question
“The seasons are changing, but my warm season grass is barely green. What can I do?”
Image credit: Sod Solutions
Answer
The Triangle area around Raleigh is located in what is called a transition zone. Basically, an area where two differing climates meet. What does that mean for your lawn? While a mix of grassy weeds may thrive, no singular grass on it’s own is ideal for our particular combination of climates.
Fescue is a popular cool season grass. This means it does well in the colder months, but can’t tolerate the heat of the summer.
Bermuda, Zoysia, and Centipede are all common warm season grasses. These do great in the heat, but are dormant in the winter. They also do poorly in the shoulder seasons, particularly as the temperatures slowly climb but have not quite reached a consistent summer heat.
It’s common for the Triangle area to experience cool temperatures well into the month of June. When this occurs, the cool season fescue grass has a great and extended growth season. However, the warm season grasses will look like they aren’t doing anything at all. Unfortunately, no amount of fertilizer can make these warm season grasses perk up. Only heat will do that.
If you are stressed about your warm season grass right now, try not to let it bother you. The heat will come! …and soon enough we’ll be hoping for the fall reprieve.
Email info@tlgturfcare.com with further questions and information.