Question
Hi Tom,
I am thinking of replacing fescue with Bermuda or something like it.  Every fall, I get a big patches of burned out grass, primarily due to water starvation.  I don't have irrigation system in my yard.  The front and most of backyard do not have any shade, which makes watering the yard even more important.  To top it off, the backyard slope faces south and gets scorched by the sun even harder.

Last year, I got free design done for irrigation system by an equipment vendor.  While pondering about whether to put the system myself or contract it out, I spoke to three different contractors.  Each of them suggested not to put it because it was not needed in this area, so I dropped the plan.  Since last year, I have been thinking of switching the grass to Bermuda. This year's drought is further supporting the idea.

The first question is, is it a good idea?  If the answer is yes, what are the do's and don'ts I should be aware off?  Thanks a lot for your help.

Regards.
- Arif

Answer
Arif:

This issue is one of taste, environmental conscience and pocketbook.

If you already know what Bermuda looks like in winter and it is not objectionable, then it is a good choice.

If you are conscious of saving water, and that is a consideration, then you may not wish to install an irrigation system.  It will expend quite a bit of water in a year.  It does, however, have the ability to preserve lawn quality in drought.

Installing a nice irrigation system is fairly costly, not too expensive.  However, operating it and paying for water used will add up over time.  Water will become more expensive as time wears on.  If you are on a well, I would ask if it is capable of producing enough water to run the system or if you would need to dig another well for more yield.

All these questions appear to be the ones which, when answered, will lead you to a decision.

Both types of turf are drought resistant in different ways.   Fescue will brown out before Bermuda will, and return when rain comes again, unless there are fungal or pest problems.  Bermuda will endure a drought longer than fescue, but will, eventually, brown out.  It will also recover when rain returns, but maybe not until next growing season, as in this year when frost came before rain.

Best wishes.