A new multi-state study reveals simple management tips to help hybrid bermudagrass stay green and vibrant throughout the year, even in the challenging transition zone climate.
The Power of Proper Mowing
Mowing height is a critical component in keeping your lawn green and healthy. One of the biggest keys to decreasing weed infestations is raising the mowing height slightly as bermudagrass approaches winter dormancy, according to study)data.
The researchers said the sweet spot is about 0.75 of an inch. Mowing at 0.5 inches may expose the canopy, making it easier for weeds to move in, whereas mowing at 1 inch can slow spring green-up. But all of these mowing heights are well below what is recommended for a standard home lawn. You need to mow higher than that so your lawn will look nice & green all summer long.
Why Is Fall Fertilization So Important?
Historically, late summer nitrogen applications were not recommended for bermudagrass because it was believed nitrogen at this time could lead to excessive top growth over root growth as the season winds down, increasing winter kill potential.
But the study determined that applications of slow-release nitrogen even through mid-September resulted in no negative impact on turf quality and some positive effects on color. No reduction in yield and no detrimental effect from late-season nitrogen applications was reported.
Great news for homeowners and lawn care professionals — This discovery allows for the safe application of fall fertilizers that will keep your bermudagrass at its best through the winter! Just be sure it is hydrated well and given access to the right nutrients at the correct time, so you can have a green luscious lawn.
The Secret Weapon: Adequate Soil Moisture
According to the researchers, the most important management practice for reducing winterkill is enough soil moisture. A significant relationship was discovered between soil moisture and bermudagrass survival during a brief freeze event.
The team then put it to the test in environmental chambers to replicate field-based winter freeze conditions and found that higher pre-event soil moisture increased turfgrass survival from freezes. This may be a temporary warming effect of the irrigation water, which can provide some rootstock damage buffering from cold temperatures.
Soil moisture levels are highly variable from year to year and site to site, so the researchers emphasize it is not as simple as just irrigating at a certain level. Wait until the soil is as dry as you can manage before a freeze event. If you can maintain the soil at consistent moisture, this will help your bermudagrass make it through winter and return strong when springtime arrives.
Conclusion
Across the board, the multi-state study on winter bermudagrass health has created a boon for homeowners, lawn care professionals, and sports field managers alike. Using these three straightforward management practices — raise mowing, fall fertilization, and keeping soil moisture as adequate — you can keep the bermudagrass turf looking lush and green throughout the season even in transition zone climate. Such collaborative research is a powerful and timely example of cooperation between universities, with positive implications across the turfgrass industry and beyond.
