What's the best way to take care of grass in Phoenix, AZ?

Question

I just bought a house in the Phoenix area, and I watered it moderately and it was dying, so I practically flooded it and it is still dying. Any tips?

Answer 1

It depends on the type of grass -- some grass, especially tiff, starts to die off (go dormant) as soon as it cools of a little bit at night. I live in Phoenix too, and my grass is starting to go dormant. What you have to do is cut your lawn really short and plant your winter lawn. You'll probably see other people starting to do the same thing soon. I'm planning which weekend to do mine.

Answer 2

Autumn is the time of year that the summertime grass must be sheared very short---scalp it, even. Then over seed with annual rye seed.

You see, the grass that grows there in summer is a particular variety that needs the Arizona heat. Unfortunately, it will not grow in the cooler winters.

Some people just let their lawns go yellow, then brown...and don't seem to mind the unsightliness from October until April. It won't hurt anything to leave it alone.

If you would like to have a lush green lawn thru the winter, though, over seeding with annual rye is the way to go.

They sell the seeds and proper fertilizer in local garden centers at this time of year. Home Depot has an excellent supply.

Best wishes to you in your new home!

PS. Consider purchasing a paperback book called Western Gardening which is published by the Sunset Company. It is chock full of information about gardening in the South West. Since you are new to the area, you will quickly come to consider it to be your Gardening Bible!!!

Answer 3

Move back to where things actually grow

Answer 4

Rocks?

:)