Climate patterns have become quite erratic, which concerns both homemakers and environmentalists. This is the reason why it has become all the more crucial to pay close attention when selecting the right grass for your lawn. Because if the grass is not suited for the ever-changing climate, your lawn will struggle to survive in the long run.
The abundance of lawn grass varieties can make picking the right one difficult. Not all grass species will cope well with harsh sunlight and long spells of drought.
It is not only about picking grass species that can survive harsh weather conditions. You should think of other variables like soil type and growing needs of various grass varieties. Some of them grow fast while others take longer to reach mature stage.
So, What Is Drought–Resistant Grass?
Who does not love the sight of a lush and green lawn? You may want such a lawn around the house all year round! However, the reality is that maintaining the lush-green look is extremely difficult to say the least.
No type of grass seed is completely drought-proof! However, some agronomists do argue that there are some drought-tolerant grass species that turn things around for your lawn if you happen to live a drought prone region in the United States. Now, just because you are using drought-resistant grass, you should not automatically assume that the seeds that you have planted don’t need any kind of moisture. That would be a disaster in the making.
The grass will start turning brown if it does not get consistent supply of water for a long period of time. Most grass types will start dying in such situations but the drought-tolerant ones will survive. As the water supply resumes, the greenery will be restored.
With water supply problems becoming more widespread, watering grass every day may not be prudent, and cautious usage is advisable. So, choose grass seeds that cope with occasional water shortage without issues if you live in areas witnessing harsh summer days.
How to pick the right drought-tolerant grass variant
Drought–tolerant grass types can be classified into 2 types, broadly. These are – cool-season and warm-season grass types. This way, you can choose the appropriate grass that thrives in different temperature and rainfall patterns.
Usually, cool season grasses thrive when the temperature is within the range-60-75˚F. These grass variants remain green until the temperature plunges below 32˚F. These variants can even survive exposure to subfreezing temperatures. People in the Northern US states and the Northern Great Plains can choose these grass types.
The grasses meant for the warm season need temperature hovering between the range of 80-95˚F. Remember these grass variants lose their green color when the temperature falls below 50˚F. They may not survive subfreezing temperatures as well. Those staying in the southern, and southeast states of the USA can choose these variants.
If you live in a transition zone, use a mix of both types. You may also seek expert guidance in this regard.
The Top Contenders For Cool Season Drought-Tolerant Grasses
Fescue – Agronomy experts feel Fescue is a good choice for people looking for drought-tolerant cool-season turf grass types. They also cope well with heavy foot traffic, which is why they are often chosen for sports fields. Some cultivars of tall fescue are used because they also tolerate heat. Some Fescue variants grow deep roots and sustain longer periods without rain. Some red and fine fescue variants are ideal for deep shade areas where other grasses fare poorly. Overall, turf-type tall fescues suit users seeking beautiful thick lawns amidst mixed lighting conditions.
Kentucky Bluegrass – This grass has underground creeping rhizomes that survive dry seasons with aplomb. The dry season results in the grass entering a dormant stage but watering restores the green color.
Perennial ryegrass – This drought-tolerant variant germinates rather fast and copes well with cold and dry spells. It does not fare well with close cuts though.
The Top Choices For Warm-Season Drought-Tolerant Grasses
If you live in a place with a warm climate, you may pick from a broad range of drought-tolerant grass species.
Bermuda grass – Agronomy experts opine this grass has a really long root system and that can reach 6 feet beneath the ground. Intense drought period will not kill this grass. Bermuda grass copes with heat exceptionally well. This, coupled with its capacity to survive heavy traffic has made the grass a hit with people in warm climate areas.
Zoysia grass – This is another top player in the drought-tolerant grass category for warm climate. Natively grown in Asia this grass is now available in the USA, too. It copes well with both heat and cold. The low growth rate means you can mow it at longer intervals. Zoysia grass seed copes well with a limited water supply.
Other popular contenders among warm-season grasses are St. Augustine, and Buffalo. These types withstand dry spells easily. They become dormant without water but once rain resumes, the green look is restored. Analyzing aspects like the temperature range and water supply availability in your region is important before you choose a grass type.
So, what is the best grass in terms of drought tolerance?
Many agronomy experts vote in favor of Buffalo grass seed. This warm-season grass thrives in warm and dry climates. It falls in the USDA hardiness zones range 4-9.
What is the best grass in terms of water requirement?
Grass types that are sustained without much water include zoysia, Bermuda, and buffalo.
Choosing a drought-tolerant grass helps keep the lawn aesthetically pleasing. However, offering the grass nutrients and watering at the required interval is also necessary. Periodic cutting and proper feeding lead to good root development, making the grass robust enough to survive extended dry spells.
The need to choose the right lawn seed that matches the climate
The sustenance of a lush and green lawn depends on some factors, including careful seed selection, periodic mowing, feeding and water supply. However, buying grass seeds matching the climate of the region yield the best outcome. It also helps reduce the time and effort required for lawn maintenance. Drought-tolerant grass varieties can sustain dry spells or weather fluctuations once their roots develop well.
