What months does grass not grow?

What Months Does Grass Not Grow, Depending on Grass Type?

Grass growth is highly dependent on its specific type and the local climate conditions. Generally, grass enters a dormant state when temperatures are either too cold or too hot, or when faced with extreme drought. This dormancy is a survival mechanism where the grass conserves energy rather than actively growing.

Key Dormancy Periods for Common Grass Types

Different grass varieties have distinct periods when they cease active growth. The exact months can vary slightly based on specific regional climate fluctuations, but the following table provides a general guide for when popular grass types typically stop growing:

Understanding Grass Dormancy

Grass dormancy is a natural process where the plant temporarily stops growing to protect itself from environmental stress, primarily temperature extremes. During this period, the grass may turn brown or yellow, but it is not dead. Its crown and root system remain alive, ready to resume growth when favorable conditions return.

Regional Variations and Grass Types

The months of dormancy are largely dictated by whether a grass is classified as a cool-season or warm-season variety:

• Cool-season grasses, such as tall fescue and fine fescue, thrive in cooler temperatures (typically 60-75°F). They often go dormant during the coldest months of winter (November to April) and can also enter a summer dormancy phase during periods of extreme heat and drought (July and August).
• Warm-season grasses, including Zoysia grass and St. Augustine grass, prefer warmer climates (typically 80-95°F). These grasses actively grow during the hot summer months but will enter dormancy as temperatures drop in the fall and remain dormant through the winter (October to April).

Factors Influencing Grass Dormancy

Several factors contribute to when grass stops growing:

• Temperature: This is the primary driver. Sustained cold or excessive heat triggers dormancy.
• Moisture: Severe drought can also force grass into dormancy, regardless of temperature.
• Grass Type: As shown above, different types have different temperature thresholds.
• Geographic Location: The specific climate zone determines the length and severity of extreme temperatures.

What to Do When Your Grass is Dormant

When your lawn enters dormancy, it requires a different approach to care:

• Reduce Watering: Dormant grass requires significantly less water. Overwatering can lead to disease.
• Avoid Fertilizing: Fertilizers are ineffective on dormant grass and can potentially harm the lawn or leach into groundwater. Wait until the grass shows signs of active growth before fertilizing.
• Limit Traffic: Heavy foot traffic can damage dormant turf, as the grass blades are brittle and less resilient.

Understanding these dormancy periods helps in properly maintaining your lawn throughout the year, ensuring it remains healthy and vibrant when conditions are right for growth.