If you live in the South, summer heat can be tough on your lawn. Even though Bermuda grass is one of the most heat-tolerant turf types available, extended periods of high temperatures and limited rainfall can cause it to show signs of stress. Homeowners often notice their lawn becoming yellow, thin, or less vibrant during the hottest weeks of the year.

When temperatures remain in the upper 90s and 100s, Bermuda grass shifts its energy from growth to survival. As a result, the lawn may lose some of its deep green color, thin out in certain areas, and recover more slowly from foot traffic, mowing, or other stresses. Shallow watering, compacted soil, and heavy summer use can make these symptoms even more noticeable.

It’s important to remember that yellow or thinning grass is not always caused by a lack of water. Heat stress, soil compaction, insect activity, disease pressure, and nutrient deficiencies can all contribute to a lawn that looks less healthy during the summer months.

The good news is that Bermuda grass is extremely resilient. To help it perform its best during summer, water deeply and infrequently, providing about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week, including rainfall. This encourages deeper root growth and improves drought tolerance. Continue mowing regularly, removing no more than one-third of the leaf blade at a time, and maintain a mowing height between 1 and 2 inches for most Bermuda lawns. With proper watering, mowing, and fertilization, your lawn can stay healthier through the heat and recover quickly when temperatures begin to moderate.