Dormant Grass vs. Dead Grass
As an integral part of nature's extraordinary survival mechanisms, dormancy serves as a protective state that plants, including grass, enter to withstand unfavorable conditions.
This phenomenon is most commonly observed in grass during the harsh winter months or during severe drought periods.
During these times, grass may give an impression of being dead due to its brown or yellow appearance. However, this is merely a survival strategy rather than an indication of demise.
Published: June 12, 2023.
When grass enters a dormant state, it conserves resources, essentially going into a hibernation-like condition. It ceases its growth and focuses its energy on the roots, thereby ensuring its survival during adverse weather conditions.
This change in energy direction is a major reason for the color shift from vibrant green to a seemingly lifeless brown. Yet, beneath the surface, the roots of the grass are very much alive and healthy, waiting for favorable conditions to return.
The transition into dormancy is not immediate.
It occurs gradually, allowing the grass to adjust to the changing environment without experiencing a shock. This period can last for a few weeks to several months, depending on the specific species of grass and the environmental conditions.
When optimal conditions return, the grass breaks its dormancy and resumes its typical growth pattern, turning back to its lush, vibrant green.
What is the Difference Between Dormant Grass and Dead Grass
While dormant grass may give the appearance of being dead, there are distinct differences between the two states. Recognizing these differences can be crucial for proper lawn maintenance and restoration.
The primary difference lies in the condition of the grass's roots.
In dormant grass, the roots remain healthy and vibrant, ready to spring back to life when conditions improve. However, in dead grass, the roots are also dead, no longer capable of sustaining life or promoting growth.
If you pull a blade of grass from your lawn and the roots come up easily and are brown or gray, that's a strong indicator that the grass is indeed dead.
Another difference is the uniformity of color. Dormant grass tends to be uniformly brown across the entire lawn as it is a response to environmental conditions that usually affect the entire area.
In contrast, patches of dead grass may appear randomly, not necessarily encompassing the whole yard, and often surrounded by healthy, green grass.
One more way to differentiate between dormant and dead grass is by observing their response to improved conditions.
Dormant grass will green up and start growing again once it receives adequate water and the weather is favorable. On the other hand, dead grass will remain lifeless and not show any signs of revival, no matter how much care it receives.
Finally, the timeline is an important distinguishing factor. While grass can stay dormant for a long time, depending on the species and conditions, it should revive when optimal conditions are restored.
If the grass does not revive even after weeks of proper watering and favorable weather, it's likely that the grass is dead.
When Does Grass Go Dormant
Grass typically goes dormant during periods of prolonged environmental stress, the most common being intense cold or heat, drought, and in some cases, over-flooding.
In regions with harsh winters, grass may enter dormancy as early as late fall and may remain dormant throughout winter, reviving again in spring.
Similarly, in hot, dry climates, grass can become dormant in the height of summer when water is scarce. Understanding your region's climate patterns can help you anticipate when your lawn might enter and exit its dormant stages.
Which Lawn Grasses Go Dormant
Most types of lawn grass will enter a dormant state in response to environmental stress. However, the trigger and timing can vary significantly depending on the specific species and their natural climate.
Does Bahia Grass Go Dormant?
Yes, Bahia grass does go dormant, typically during colder months or during periods of drought.
It is a warm-season grass, meaning it thrives in warm weather and may turn brown and appear dead during winter or severe drought, signaling dormancy.
Does Bermuda Grass Go Dormant?
Bermuda grass, another warm-season grass species, also goes dormant during cold seasons.
It thrives in hot, sunny environments and can tolerate drought to an extent. However, when temperatures drop significantly, especially below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, Bermuda grass will enter a dormant state, turning brown until temperatures rise again.
Does Centipede Grass Go Dormant?
Centipede grass, favored for its low maintenance needs, is a warm-season grass that goes dormant during the winter months.
When temperatures drop below 55 degrees Fahrenheit, this grass type will often enter dormancy.
Similarly, during extended dry periods, Centipede grass may also enter a dormant state until more favorable conditions return.
Does St. Augustine Grass Go Dormant?
St. Augustine grass, popular in warmer regions for its lush, blue-green color, also enters a dormant phase during cooler weather.
Typically, this grass type will begin to go dormant when temperatures consistently fall below 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Extended periods of drought can also trigger dormancy in St. Augustine grass.
Does Zoysia Grass Go Dormant?
Zoysia grass, a versatile warm-season grass, will go dormant in response to both cold temperatures and prolonged drought.
It's known for its ability to withstand a wide range of soil and light conditions, but when the ground temperature falls below 55 degrees Fahrenheit, Zoysia grass will typically enter dormancy.
How To Wake Up/Revive Dormant Grass
Reviving dormant grass involves patience and regular, careful maintenance. Once the environmental conditions improve, such as increased rainfall and optimal temperature range, dormant grass will naturally begin to revive.
Regular watering can help expedite this process, but it's essential not to overwater, which could lead to other problems like disease or fungus.
It's also a good idea to gently rake the lawn before the growing season begins. This process can remove any thatch build-up, allowing sunlight, water, and nutrients to reach the grass roots more effectively.
Fertilizing the lawn at the start of the growing season can also provide the necessary nutrients to kick-start the growth of dormant grass.
How Long Does It Take Dormant Grass To Turn Green
The time it takes for dormant grass to turn green again can vary significantly depending on the grass type and the environmental conditions.
Generally, with optimal conditions and proper care, you should start seeing signs of revival, such as small green shoots, within two to four weeks. The lawn should regain its full, lush, green appearance in about six to eight weeks.
However, this timeline can be longer in cases of extreme dormancy or if the dormancy break conditions are less than optimal. Patience is key, as rushing the process can often do more harm than good.
Few Final Words
Understanding the difference between dormant and dead grass is essential to maintain a healthy and vibrant lawn. While both may initially look similar, they require different treatment methods.
Dormant grass is a natural survival strategy and needs patience and regular care until conditions improve. On the contrary, dead grass requires more intensive intervention, such as reseeding or laying new sod, to restore the lawn's greenery.
The transition of grass from green to brown may often cause worry. However, understanding that this could be a protective mechanism rather than a sign of death can change the way we perceive and care for our lawns.
Distinguishing between the two states is not always straightforward. If in doubt, it's always advisable to consult a professional lawn care service. With their experience and knowledge, they can accurately diagnose the condition of the grass and advise on the best course of action.
A well-maintained lawn not only enhances the aesthetics of your home but also contributes to a healthier environment by reducing soil erosion, filtering pollutants, and providing oxygen.