How to Care for Bermuda Grass
Bermuda grass care follows a seasonal cycle: scalp in early spring to promote green-up, fertilize monthly during active growth (April through September), mow every 3 to 5 days at 1 to 2 inches, and water 1 to 1.5 inches per week.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I fertilize bermuda grass?
Monthly during active growth, April through September. Apply 1 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet per application using a high-nitrogen fertilizer. Total annual nitrogen for bermuda is 4 to 6 pounds per 1,000 square feet, the highest of any common lawn grass.
When does bermuda grass come out of dormancy?
When soil temperature exceeds 65 degrees consistently, typically March in the deep South, April in the transition zone, and May in the northern limit of bermuda range. Scalping the lawn in early spring speeds green-up by exposing soil to sunlight and warmth.
Should I overseed bermuda with ryegrass in winter?
Optional. Overseeding with perennial ryegrass in October provides a green lawn through winter. The ryegrass dies when summer heat returns and bermuda takes over. The downside is that ryegrass competes with bermuda during spring transition, potentially slowing bermuda green-up by 2 to 3 weeks.
Can bermuda grass survive zone 6 winters?
Tahoma 31 is the most cold-tolerant bermuda variety and survives zone 6 winters in most years. Common bermuda and other hybrids have higher winter kill risk in zone 6. In the transition zone, expect some winter damage in harsh years and plan for spring recovery.
