Warm-season grasses, unlike their cool-season counterparts, thrive in the heat. Their peak growth season occurs in the middle of summer. Many warm-season types of grass, but not all of them, are drought-tolerant. Here is a list of warm-season grasses that can withstand heat.
Bermuda Grass
This grass is prevalent in North America. The most drought-tolerant varieties are those that have been bred for the south. Bermuda grass is tolerant of the high sun and can withstand heavy traffic. It also responds quickly to watering when it gets dry. Bermuda grass needs to be mowed frequently during the growing season. In warm winter, it goes dormant. You can maintain a green lawn with ryegrass.
These species are the most heat- and drought-tolerant.
- Common Bermuda
- Celebrate
- GN1
- Grimes EXP
- TexTurf
- TifSport
- Tifway 419
Augustine Grass
This grass is the most widely used variety of coarse-leaf grass in Florida. It is highly recommended by homeowners on the Gulf Coast, Africa, and Pacific Islands for its heat tolerance. St. Augustine grass thrives in dappled shade and can withstand moderate traffic. It does not require much water to stay green during winter dormancy. However, this species is very susceptible to disease. Don’t overwater in winter.
Floratam is the most drought- and heat-tolerant cultivated variety of this species.
Zoysia Grass
Once established, this slow-growing grass will provide a lush green turf carpet. Zoysia grass doesn’t require frequent watering or mowing; this reduces maintenance costs and time. In addition, this grass can withstand sun and shade and is well-suited for foot traffic.
These are the most drought- and heat-tolerant cultivars of this species.
- El Toro
- Empire
- Jamur
- Palisdaes
Buffalo Grass
Buffalo grass is native to the Midwest. Once established, it needs full sun and very little water. This grass is native to the Plains of Montana and Mexico. Its name derives from its natural history. These grasses once fed buffalo herds as they roamed these regions. Remember that buffalo grass is not tolerant of foot traffic and should be kept at least five inches.
All varieties are drought-tolerant. Legacy, however, is a cultivated variety that has been bred precisely for low-water landscaping.
Centipede Grass
Centipede grass was introduced to the US in 1916 by a Southeast Asian native. Once established, it is hardy and slow-growing. Although it prefers full sun to partial shade, its ability to survive in acidic soil makes Centipede grass a popular choice for a stippled area under pines.
Bahia Grass
Bahia grass is an all-purpose grass that can withstand foot traffic and pests. It also thrives in poor soil but does not require full sunlight to grow. In addition, because of its extensive root system, this grass is more heat-resistant than any other grass.
You can increase drought and heat tolerance by watering your grass less often but more deeply, using nutrient-rich soil, and keeping it shaded a little longer.
We are here to help
Choosing warm-season grass for your garden can be difficult due to all the options. We can help! Doing spring cleanups in Mashpee MA can help evaluate your landscape, soil, and sun exposure and make a recommendation.
