Bermuda – Drought Care

kevbo62 – posted 18 July 2006 17:26

I’m in Texas (North of Dallas) and we are being told that we will be in a Stage 4 Watering Restriction by mid-August.

My Bermuda grass (about 3 years old) is finally full, thick, and a very nice green color, and I’ve worked hard to get it that way. Knowing that I’m not going to be able to water anymore, what can I do to protect my investment now?

I’ve heard a few of the guys talking about trying to get one more bag of fertilizer (like a 16-11-15, or similar) and some Ironite down, and then water the heck out of their yards one last time … will that be worthless? highly recommended? so-so? or a really bad decision?

Thanks.

jr – posted 18 July 2006 20:05

do not add fertilizer in a drought situation. you would be increasing the demand for water.

Grassguy – posted 18 July 2006 20:44

potassium-K and phosporus-P build drought tolerance. without a soil analysis dont go heavy if you do apply. just water it in good.easy on the N, (low number) slow release. there is a slow release fert that relys on the microbes to break down(sulfur coated)instead of moisture. High soil temps favor the sulfur coated ferts. although without a soil analysis these macro nutrients could be adiquite in the soil already.

[This message has been edited by Grassguy (edited 18 July 2006).]