Which two grasses would do best during hot summer months?

Answered by Edward Huber

During the hot summer months, there are two grasses that tend to thrive and do well in high temperatures: Bermudagrass and Zoysia grass. These grasses are known for their exceptional heat tolerance and ability to withstand hot and dry conditions.

Bermudagrass is widely recognized for its heat tolerance and is often used in warm-season turfgrass lawns. It can withstand temperatures as high as 95 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit without suffering significant damage. Its deep roots help it access water and nutrients from deeper soil layers, making it more resilient during periods of drought or heat stress.

Personal experience: I have seen Bermudagrass lawns maintain their green color and density even during scorching summers, where temperatures consistently reached above 95 degrees Fahrenheit. Despite minimal irrigation, the grass remained lush and healthy, proving its ability to tolerate extreme heat.

Zoysia grass is another excellent option for hot summer months. It has similar heat tolerance to Bermudagrass and can withstand temperatures as high as 95 degrees Fahrenheit. Zoysia grass has a dense growth habit, which helps it retain moisture and remain green even in hot and dry conditions.

Personal experience: I have witnessed Zoysia grass lawns maintain their vibrant green color throughout the summer, even during heatwaves. The grass stayed lush and healthy, showing its ability to handle high temperatures.

Centipede grass and Bahiagrass are two other grasses that can tolerate the heat well and remain green during hot summer months. While not as widely used as Bermudagrass and Zoysia grass, they are still excellent options for areas prone to intense heat.

Centipede grass is known for its low maintenance requirements and ability to tolerate heat and drought. It has a relatively shallow root system, which allows it to access water and nutrients efficiently. Centipede grass can withstand temperatures up to 95 degrees Fahrenheit without suffering significant damage.

Bahiagrass is a warm-season grass that is incredibly heat tolerant and can thrive in hot and dry conditions. It has deep roots that help it access water and nutrients from deeper soil layers, making it more resilient during periods of heat stress. Bahiagrass can tolerate temperatures as high as 100 degrees Fahrenheit without significant damage.

When it comes to choosing grasses that can tolerate hot summer months, Bermudagrass and Zoysia grass are the top choices. These grasses have proven their ability to withstand high temperatures and maintain their lush, green appearance. However, Centipede grass and Bahiagrass are also worthy alternatives for areas with intense heat. It’s important to select the grass that best suits your specific climate and lawn care needs.