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How to Keep Bermuda Grass Green in the Fall

Bermudagrass is a drought-resistant turf grass commonly found on sports fields, golf courses and in parks. Because it is easy to plant and maintain, it's also commonly used in residential lawns. Although the grass prefers full sun, some varieties are very cold tolerant, staying green in temperatures as low as 34 degrees Fahrenheit. It does turn brown with the first major drop in temperature, however, so following a few tips will help it stay green through the fall.

Instructions

    • 1

      Plant a cold-tolerant variety of bermudagrass. If you are currently growing bermudagrass, you can overseed it with a cold-tolerant variety.

    • 2

      Make sure that the grass is well-watered, well-aerated and receives plenty of sunlight. Even though the grass is drought resistant, it does go semi-dormant under very dry conditions.

    • 3

      Fertilize your bermudagrass at a rate of 1 to 1.5 lbs. of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet per month during the growing season. This ensures a longer growing season and a high-quality turf.

    • 4

      Mow bermudagrass so that no more that 40 percent of the leaf tissue is removed at any mowing. According to Texas A & M University, this means that lawns mowed to a height of 1 inch, for example, need to be mowed at 5- to 7-day intervals.

    • 5

      Test the pH of the soil. Maintaining a soil pH between 6.5 and 8.0 ensures a longer growing season for your bermudagrass.

    • 6

      Be aware of any pest problems that could cause your grass to be stressed. Following proper fertilization, close mowing and irrigation guidelines prevents most pest problems.