Temperatures are ideal for warm-season grasses, in contrast to the cooler-season varieties. The middle of summer in Salt Lake City is their prime time for growth. And while not all warm-season grasses can withstand prolonged dry conditions, many can. Grass species that thrive in warm climates are detailed below.

Bermuda Grass

This common grass is cultivated all throughout the continent of North America. Drought resistance is a priority when selecting plant cultivars for South America. Sun-loving, wear-resistant, and quick to recover after a soaking, Bermuda grass thrives in even the worst conditions. Bermuda grass must be cut often throughout the hot months. In milder winters, it becomes dormant, allowing you to overseed your lawn with Ryegrass for year-round greenery.

Among this group, the most drought- and heat-resistant species are:

• Common Bermuda
• Celebration
• TexTurf
• TifSport
• Tifway 419
• GN1
• Grimes EXP

Grass of St. Augustine

This type of coarse-leaf grass is highly desirable. Homeowners on the Gulf Coast, in Africa, and in the Pacific Islands all give it high marks for withstanding extreme temperatures. St. Augustine grass thrives in shady, dappled areas and can withstand a fair amount of foot traffic. It’s drought-resistant so that it can stay green even in the dead of winter. Do not waste your time or money watering St. Augustine grass when it is dormant in the winter since this plant is prone to illnesses when overwatered.

The Floratam species has the most drought- and heat-tolerant farmed variety.

Zoysia Grass

Once grown, this grass grows slowly but produces an attractive green turf carpet. The low care requirements of Zoysia grass mean less time and money spent on upkeep. This grass thrives in both full sun and partial shade and can withstand heavy use.

These plant cultivars are the most drought- and heat-resistant:

• Jamur
• Palisades
• El Toro
• Empire

Buffalo Grass

This kind of grass originated in the Midwest. Once planted, buffalo grass needs very little water. The native range of this grass extends from the plains of Mexico to Montana, where it gets its name from its rich cultural history. This was formerly a staple food for herds of buffalo that roamed the plains. Remember that Buffalo grass has to be at least five inches tall to survive foot activity.

While it’s true that all plants may survive in dry conditions, Legacy is one of the varieties selectively chosen for use in low-water gardens.

Centipede Grass

Spread from Southeast Asia to the United States in 1916. Once grown, centipede grass is a highly low-maintenance grass. It prefers cool, shady spots, but full sun is OK, too. However, because it does well in acidic soils, it is best suited for partially shaded places beneath pine trees.

Bahia Grass

A versatile grass that can withstand a lot of use and wear and tear. Bahia grass is both disease- and insect-resistant. Even though it does well on poor soil, it requires lots of sunlight. It’s a great grass that can withstand high temperatures because its extensive root system allows it to reach the water far deeper than other grasses can.

Keep in mind that any type of grass may be made more resistant to heat and drought by receiving infrequent but thorough watering, being planted in nutrient-rich soil, and being allowed to remain in place for an extended period of time to provide shade for the soil below.

Allow Us to Assist You

Due to the variety of possibilities available, choosing warm-season grass for your garden might be challenging. In that case, let us assist you.