Drought Survival Guide for Your Lawn: Prepare, Endure, and Recover

Drought is inevitable. Whether short or prolonged, you can prepare your lawn for survival. Tips from the Turf Resource Center, an international nonprofit:

Before Drought Strikes

30–45 days before expected dry periods, strengthen your lawn:

• Reduce thatch and compaction.
• Reduce/eliminate nitrogen fertilizer; increase potassium.
• Water late night or early morning.
• Water infrequently but deeply.
• Sharpen mower blade 2–3 times per season.
• Mow often—never remove more than top third of blades.
• Leave clippings on the lawn.
• Avoid herbicides and pesticides.

Need to patch bare spots? Calculate seed needs with our calculator.

During Drought

Once drought hits or temperatures soar for a week+:

• Raise mowing height 25% or more.
• Reduce foot traffic.
• Increase watering near buildings, heat-reflecting surfaces, high/sloped areas.

Extended Drought & Water Restrictions

If drought persists or restrictions apply:

• Eliminate all lawn traffic.
• Restrict watering to priority areas only.
• Accept that unwatered sections will go dormant (brown) until conditions improve.