Q: My primary question is regarding planting a grass that would be tolerant to the “colder” weather that would not require a re-seeding of rye grass. Would it not be possible to make sure the bermudagrass would stay half way green through the dormant season? Or a different type of grass that would not have to be re-seeded with the rye grass. Also, is it really necessary to water two times a day on the rye seeding at this time?
A: The best grass for this part of the world continues to be bermudagrass. It can deal with high sunlight, high air temperatures, salty water/soil, shallow soil and heavy use. Unfortunately, the life cycle of bermudagrass includes going dormant. Think of dormancy as sleep and how it is hard to go without any for very long and remain in good health. Overseeding is optional but it helps keep some green if that is your goal. It also helps keep your lawn thick, which helps shade out weeds. Watering twice per day is recommended for germination. Once it starts growing you can water every other day and then once a week once the temperatures cool down for the winter.
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Peter L. Warren is the urban horticulture agent for the Pima County Cooperative Extension and the University of Arizona. Questions and photos may be emailed to tucsongardensage@gmail.com
