When dry spells hit DFW, your lawn can take a beating. But not all grass suffers equally. Knowing which warm-season varieties handle drought best—and how to care for them—can make a big difference. It’s the key to avoiding a brown, struggling yard and enjoying one that’s resilient through the toughest conditions.

How Southern Grasses Survive Dry Spells

Warm-season grasses like Bermuda, Zoysia, and St. Augustine evolved in hot, often arid climates. So they have natural advantages during droughts. Here are their three key survival tactics:

• Efficient roots that seek out water far below the surface
• Tight growth habits that minimize moisture loss
• Dormancy responses to conserve energy until rains return

For homeowners in the Dallas, TX area, the right grass and following GroGreen’s smart watering practices can keep your lawn healthy…even in extreme heat.

 

Drought-Tolerant Grasses for Dallas Lawns

1. Bermuda Grass

Bermuda stands out for its incredible resilience:

• Roots extend 6+ feet deep to access water
• Recovers rapidly after rainfall
• Handles scorching temps (up to 110°F)

Water Needs: Just 1 inch every 2–3 weeks when dormant
Best For: Sunny, high-traffic areas

2. Zoysia Grass 

Zoysia combines durability with a soft, dense texture:

• Thick growth naturally blocks weeds
• Waxy leaves reduce evaporation
• Slow growth means less frequent mowing

Water Needs: 30–50% less than St. Augustine
Best For: Those who want low-maintenance beauty
Watch For: Some disease susceptibility in humid climates

3. St. Augustine Grass

While less drought-resistant than Bermuda or Zoysia, it excels in:

• Staying green longer into winter
• Filling bare spots quickly
• Thriving in partial shade

Water Needs: 1.5–2 inches weekly in peak summer
Best For: Landscapes with mixed sun/shade

4. Centipede Grass 

Called the “lazy man’s grass” because it:

• Needs little fertilizer
• Grows slowly (less mowing)
• Handles moderate drought

Water Needs: Survives 3–4 weeks without water
Best For: Acidic soils across the Southeast

5. Bahia Grass

Common along highways due to its:

• Ability to grow in poor, sandy soils
• Natural pest resistance
• Minimal care requirements

Water Needs: Thrives on 1 inch or more monthly
Best For: Large, low-maintenance spaces (not manicured lawns)

Spotting Drought Stress Early

Watch for these warning signs:

• Color shifts (green → gray → brown)
• Footprints remain visible after walking
• Blades curl inward to conserve water
• Soil develops cracks
• Slow regrowth after mowing

When droughts hit Plano, TX and the surrounding metroplex, act quickly! Early intervention prevents lasting damage.

Smart Watering Strategies for Dry Conditions

1. Water Deeply, Not Often

• 1–1.5 inches per session (use a rain gauge or tuna can to measure)
• Encourages deeper roots
• Frequency: Every 5–7 days in summer

2. Time It Right

• Best: 4–8 a.m. (minimizes evaporation)
• Avoid evenings (can promote fungal diseases)

3. Let Some Grasses Rest

• Bermuda & Zoysia can safely go dormant (brown)
• Water 0.5″ weekly to protect roots

4. Upgrade Your System

• Smart irrigation controllers adjust for weather
• Drip irrigation prevents runoff on slopes

Extra Drought-Proofing Tips

• Mow high (3–4 inches) to shade soil 
• Aerate annually to improve water absorption
• Skip fertilizer during droughts
• Topdress with compost to boost moisture retention

Reviving Your Plano, TX Lawn After Drought

When rains return:

1. Taper off watering over 2 weeks
2. Apply slow-release fertilizer
3. Watch for insects (stress makes lawns vulnerable)
4. Overseed thin areas if needed

Need Professional Lawn Care Near Plano?

If your lawn is struggling, don’t wait! Contact GroGreen today. We proudly serve the greater Dallas, TX area, ensuring high-quality lawn care and pest control services for these communities:

• Allen, TX
• Carrollton, TX
• Coppell, TX
• Fairview Farmers Branch, TX
• Flower Mound, TX
• Frisco, TX
• Lucas, TX
• McKinney, TX
• Murphy, TX
• Parker, TX
• Plano, TX
• Prosper, TX
• Richardson, TX 
• Sachse, TX
• St. Paul, TX
• The Colony, TX
• Wylie, TX