In arid parts of the country or areas with water restrictions, drought tolerant grasses are recommended for their ability to withstand extended periods without water. Certain species of grass are better equipped to handle drought because of their native conditions and some grasses are improved cultivars, bred for their drought resistance. Drought resistant grasses are one part of a drought tolerant lawn, along with healthy soil and proper cultural practices.
Cool season drought tolerant grasses vary in their drought tolerance, some need supplemental watering while others can survive on occasional rain alone. Some grow in natural looking clumps and can be too bumpy to serve as a play area, so it is important to choose the right plant for the right purpose.
Tall fescue is an adaptable, bunch-type grass with a course texture. Each plant grows from a single seed so it needs to be seeded heavily. With regular mowing, tall fescue can provides a "carpet" affect of a traditional lawn. It prefers 3/4" of water per week preferably in one deep watering and is very traffic tolerant.
Sheep fescue is a bunch grass that grows in clumps. It provides more of a natural look and needs very little water. It only needs fertilizing every other year and requires infrequent mowing but the bumpy surface is not recommended for backyard activities.
Buffalograss is native to the midwest and gaining popularity for its thick, lush turf, infrequent mowing needs, and hardiness. It only needs 1/4" of water per week in the summer, but can survive on less. Buffalo is very slow to start from seed so it must be purchased in plugs and planted about 5" apart. Buffalograss should be mowed high (5") or not at all and makes a bumpy surface so it would not be good for backyard activities.
Wheatgrass varieties are coarse looking, all purpose grasses that need very little water or fertilizer. They are easy to start from seed and great for low maintenance areas.
Breeding, plant health, and cultural practices need to work together to provide drought resistance in a lawn. A water loving grass like Kentucky bluegrass can survive on half of its normal water requirement, if the soil is fertile, it's not mowed too short, and it's in good health. Likewise, fine fescues and ryegrass blends can become quite drought tolerant with proper management.
During extreme drought, some grasses will turn yellow and go dormant in order to survive without water. Dormant grass is vulnerable to traffic but it is not dead and will come back once it rains.
