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Q. Who is Mr. Smarty Plants?

A: There are those who suspect Wildflower Center volunteers are the culpable and capable culprits. Yet, others think staff members play some, albeit small, role. You can torture us with your plant questions, but we will never reveal the Green Guru's secret identity.

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Ask Mr. Smarty Plants is a free service provided by the staff and volunteers at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.

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Wednesday - August 12, 2015

From: Kerrville, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Non-Natives, Watering, Drought Tolerant, Grasses or Grass-like
Title: Will Bermuda grass survive a drought-induced dormancy?
Answered by: Guy Thompson

QUESTION:

If I stop watering a Bermuda grass lawn and let it go dormant, will it green up again when it rains again?

ANSWER:

Bermuda grass is one of the best grasses for use in drought-prone areas.  But I suggest that you give your lawn a good deep watering before letting it go dormant.  The grass roots will grow down to capture the deep moisture, and this will help to keep the roots alive during the subsequent drought.

 

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