What's essential for drought resilience?
Written by
Julia Anderson
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.The foundation for drought resistance begins with establishing deep root systems through proper watering techniques. Grass can be trained to search for available moisture deeper in the soil by watering infrequently, but deeply. Apply approximately one inch of water per week, ensuring the soil is soaked to a depth of 6-8 inches. Following this approach, you will develop turf that can withstand drought conditions for weeks.
Water Management
- Install smart irrigation controllers adjusting based on weather
- Use cycle-soak method: three 10-minute sessions hourly
- Collect rainwater in barrels for irrigation during bans
Grass Selection
- Choose Buffalograss for full sun areas needing minimal water
- Plant Fine Fescue blends for shady drought-prone zones
- Use Zoysia in transition zones handling heat and dryness
For water conservation, adjust the mowing height with the seasons. Increase the height by 0.5-1 inch during heat waves to shade the grass and reduce evaporation. Always maintain sharp mower blades to prevent the grass from suffering stress. Never mow more than one-third of the total height of the blade to avoid shock to the grass during dry spells.
Utilize intelligent irrigation technology. Sensor moisture meters in the soil avert applying water whenever rain is expected. Weather-controlled irrigation systems automatically change scheduling based on temperature, humidity, and forecasted rainfall. After installing these two systems, I was able to reduce my watering costs by 30%. I also utilize rain barrels, which collect runoff to use during irrigation bans.
Prepare for drought by managing your soil effectively. Aerate your lawn annually to promote better water penetration into your soil. Add organic compost to your soil to increase moisture retention. In extreme heat, don't be alarmed when your grass goes through a temporary dormant browning process, as this is a natural function of the grass to protect the plant. As the rain returns, the grass will come back to life, and all of this will be done without using unnecessary water.
Utilize these methods together to maximize resilience. Start with selecting the right grass and then add targeted watering. Since your lawn becomes self-sufficient, it will need minimal intervention during dry periods. You are creating sustainability by using less water and resources while still allowing your lawn to be a green and living space.
Read the full article: How to Care for Lawn: Beginner's Guide
