Bermuda grass turns brown in winter because it enters dormancy—a natural, seasonal pause in growth triggered by shorter daylight hours and cooler temperatures. During dormancy, the grass stops producing chlorophyll, which causes the brown color, but the roots and growing points remain alive. Dormant Bermuda will green up again in spring when soil temperatures rise.
Why Bermuda Grass Turns Brown in Winter
Bermuda grass is a warm-season grass common throughout the South, known for its durability, drought tolerance, and vibrant summer color. But once winter arrives, even the healthiest Bermuda lawns turn brown. This change can look alarming, but it is completely normal.
Understanding what’s happening—and what to expect—helps homeowners and landscape professionals care for Bermuda lawns with confidence.
Dormancy: The Real Reason Bermuda Turns Brown
Bermuda grass grows best when soil temperatures stay above 65°F. As temperatures fall in late fall and winter, the grass responds by entering dormancy, a natural survival mechanism.
During dormancy:
- Growth slows dramatically
- The plant stops producing chlorophyll (the pigment that makes grass green)
- Leaves lose their color and turn tan or brown
- Energy is conserved in the roots, crowns, and rhizomes
Even though the lawn looks brown on top, the plant is still very much alive underneath.
What Triggers Dormancy?
Several environmental changes cause Bermuda grass to go dormant:
- Shorter day length
Reduced sunlight signals the grass to conserve energy. - Cooler soil temperatures
Cold soil slows metabolic activity and root growth. - Frost and freeze events
The first frost typically turns Bermuda fully brown.
Dormancy is not a sign of disease, dehydration, or nutrient deficiency. It is simply how warm-season grasses survive winter.
When Will Bermuda Grass Green Up Again?
Bermuda grass begins greening up when:
- Daytime temperatures consistently reach the 70s
- Soil temperatures climb back above 65°F
- The risk of frost has passed
Depending on the region, green-up typically occurs:
- Deep South: Late March to early April
- Upper South: Mid-April to early May
NG Turf varieties like TifTuf™ Bermuda often green up earlier due to improved cold tolerance and root efficiency.
How to Protect Dormant Bermuda Grass in Winter
Even though Bermuda is dormant, winter care still matters. Here’s how to maintain a healthy lawn during the off-season:
- Water occasionally
Dry winter winds can cause desiccation. Provide about 1 inch of water every two weeks if rainfall is low. - Avoid heavy traffic
Dormant grass cannot repair damage until spring. - Skip fertilizing
Apply nitrogen in spring after green-up—not during winter dormancy. - Keep the lawn clean
Remove leaves and debris to prevent moisture issues and mold.
FAQ: Dormant Bermuda Grass
Q: Why does Bermuda grass turn brown in winter?
Because it enters dormancy, a natural survival process caused by cold temperatures and shorter daylight hours.
Q: Is brown Bermuda grass dead?
No. The above-ground blades turn brown, but the roots and crowns remain alive and healthy.
Q: When will Bermuda grass turn green again?
Bermuda greens up in spring when soil temperatures rise above 65°F.
Q: Should I fertilize Bermuda grass in winter?
No. Wait until active growth returns in spring.
Q: Does cold weather damage Bermuda grass?
Extended hard freezes can stress turf, but established Bermuda typically recovers well.
Q: What if only parts of my lawn stayed green?
Microclimates—areas with more sun or warmth—can remain green longer, which is normal.
