Warm-season grass for zones 6–10. Slower to establish and green up than Bermuda but denser, more weed-resistant. Dormancy: goes dormant (tan/straw) at first frost, remains dormant longer in spring than Bermuda. Green-up: slow — soil temps must reach 18°C consistently. Mow at 1–2 in for a dense, carpet-like appearance. Extremely drought-tolerant once established. Thatch accumulates rapidly — dethatch every 2–3 years. Large patch disease is the primary threat in spring/fall: apply preventive fungicide in fall when soil temps drop below 21°C. Fertilize: lighter schedule than Bermuda; avoid high nitrogen in fall to reduce large patch risk. Best for: sunny, well-drained yards with less maintenance pressure than Bermuda.

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