If you have just moved here or if you have lived in the Phoenix area for generations, you still may be uncertain about the best Arizona grass for our climate. So let’s talk grass types Arizona homeowners should consider — and some they should stay away from.
Arizona’s climate makes demands on our lawns in a way that you won’t find if you have moved from the Southeast, Northeast, or Northwest U.S. regions. That lack of rainfall can really punish any grass that you try to plant. That’s why sufficient lawn irrigation is important. Your grass won’t grow without a good sprinkler system.
Bermuda is Tops Among Summer Grass Types Arizona
Among grass types Arizona, the number one for residential use is Bermuda grass. This has been true for a long time, and it still is true today. Bermuda looks good even in drought conditions. It handles the high mineral content that is found in Arizona water. The grass can handle the comings and goings of kids, teens and adults. It is best for this type of traffic and for wandering pets. All of these pluses make it a worthwhile choice for Arizona lawns.
However, its hardiness does not mean that it can survive without adequate water. It just means that your sprinkler system will be able to keep it alive and beautiful when compared to the exact same yard with a different grass.
Rye Grass is Primary Winter Choice
When Bermuda goes into dormancy due to winter temperatures, rye enters the picture. Overseeding with rye is a common way to handle the need for grass year round. Fescue is a possible second to rye when looking for good winter grass.
Buffalo Grass is Third Among Arizona Grasses
If you don’t mind the rougher texture, buffalo grass is a good choice for Phoenix lawns. For one thing, it is native. It doesn’t grow in bunches, but spreads out just like rye, fescue or bermuda.
This native does well in Arizona drought and thrives due to Arizona’s soil composition. So why doesn’t it get the number one ranking? It dies back earlier than Bermuda and comes back later than Bermuda. This means a longer winter grass season, and that drops Bermuda’s ranking among the top grass types Arizona.
Artificial Alternatives to Arizona Grasses
There are two alternatives to growing grass. The first is to apply turf paint to a lawn as it goes dormant. Ostensibly the grass looks good all winter long and doesn’t need watering. This measure keeps you from needing to be overseeded with rye. This may sound tempting to some homeowners but most will find it strikes a false note.
Another false note is struck by using artificial turf. In the short term, it appears like grass. However, it absorbs heat and creates a hotspot that works against us during Arizona’s hot summers. This is especially noticeable since real grasses help keep an area cooler.
Whatever grass types Arizona you choose, Sprinkler Doctors can help you keep your lawn beautiful. Our irrigation systems and sprinkler repair are available to anyone in the Phoenix area. We are a local company, always ready to come when you have a problem. Contact us for repairs or installation.