The turfgrass is not dead but instead in a condition to preserve the vital parts of the plant. By becoming dormant, turfgrasses reduce water usage and can concentrate the limited amount of available moisture into the crown, rhizomes and roots. This dormant condition will allow the turfgrass plant to survive adverse conditions for extended periods until soil moisture reserves are replenished. The length of time lawn grasses can survive in a dormant condition is contingent on a number of factors including soil moisture levels, daytime temperatures, condition of the turfgrass at the onset of dormancy, etc. In general, turfgrasses can be expected to survive in a dormant condition for up to 4 to 5 weeks with limited damage if temperatures are at or below normal.
Dormant grass is lost once the crowns, rhizomes and roots begin to dehydrate.
Homeowners will often find the areas of the lawn along sidewalks, curbs, driveways, south facing slopes, etc., to encounter the most stress and will be the first areas to be lost during extended periods of drought. Homeowners have limited control over the daytime temperatures in the lawn. However, they can improve the survivability of the turfgrass in their lawn by proper management. The ability of lawn turfgrasses to survive drought conditions is enhanced if proper cultural practices are followed. The practices should be implemented in early June and continued until late August.