Snow in the Deep South is unusual in early December. But it’s a welcome sight this close to Christmas especially since we’ve seen spring like temperatures over the past couple years. Even though the snow is sometimes a fun by product of our winters. It can have some negative effects on our warm season lawns here in the South.
Bermuda and Zoysia lawns are susceptible to winter-kill when there are prolonged periods of ice, snow, or cold temperatures. The cold and wet conditions could create a fungus that infects the areas. Or the conditions could simply kill the crown of the grass keeping the area from generating new growth next growing season.
ALF recommends these four simple steps to give you the best chance of preventing winter-kill next spring:
1. Remove the ice/snow within 3-4 days.
2. Ask you turf care company about Fungicide Programs.
3. Eliminate any drainage issues where water sits more than 2 days.
4. Make sure your irrigation is off for the winter.
