By Scout Nelson
Hot summer weather and limited rainfall can cause green lawns to turn brown quickly. While the change may worry homeowners, brown grass does not always mean the lawn is dead. Cool season grasses naturally enter a dormant stage when temperatures remain high, and moisture is limited.
Kelsey Deckert, horticulture agent, NDSU Extension, Burleigh County, explained that dormancy is a normal response for cool season grasses during periods of intense summer heat. When temperatures become cooler and remain comfortable, dormant grass can begin growing again and regain its green color.
Homeowners should adjust their expectations during periods of extreme heat. A brown lawn can be temporary, and trying to keep it green through heavy maintenance may cause additional stress.
Watering is one way to help lawns during hot weather. If irrigation is used, homeowners should water deeply and less often instead of watering lightly every day. About 1 inch of water per week can help support the lawn. Morning is the best time to water because cooler temperatures reduce water loss through evaporation.
Fertilizing should be avoided while the lawn is under heat stress. Applying fertilizer during this period can damage grass. Homeowners should wait until around Labor Day, which is generally a better time to fertilize cool season lawns.
Mowing also requires care. Dormant grass should not be mowed because cutting it can add stress and cause damage. Homeowners should also limit walking, playing, and other activities on the lawn until temperatures become cooler.
These simple steps can help protect lawns during periods of high heat. Once temperatures fall and moisture conditions improve, cool season grasses can recover from dormancy and begin growing again.
For additional lawn care information, homeowners can contact their, local NDSU Extension office for guidance suited to their area.
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Categories: North Dakota, General