How to Maintain Your Lawn During a Drought

Droughts hit more than your water bill. They threaten food supplies, jobs, and increase wildfire risks. Some states even offer cash incentives for removing lawns. But experts say grass still matters.

Lawns cool neighborhoods, filter water, prevent erosion, and act as fire barriers. Removing them entirely can create “heat islands” and make conditions worse. Instead, adjust how you manage your lawn.

1. Evaluate What You Have

• Some plants may already be drought friendly.

• Identify which need more water and which need less.

• A landscape professional can assess your yard for low-water conditions.

2. Understand Lawn Benefits

Grass does more than look green:

• Cools air and reduces heat islands

• Sequesters carbon and limits dust and pollution

• Cuts home cooling costs

• Filters stormwater and reduces runoff

3. Know How Grass Responds

Brown grass isn’t always dead.

• Turf goes dormant in drought and can recover.

• Even dormant grass cools more than cement.

• Grass usually survives weeks of drought if roots stay moist.

4. Consider How You Use Your Lawn

Do you entertain, relax, or need space for kids and pets?

• Keep some grass for function.

• Convert unused areas into drought-resistant landscapes, patios, or walkways.

• Get professional guidance with certified landscape pros.

5. Install Drought-Friendly Practices

• Plant low-water species in the right spots.

• Group plants with similar water needs.

• Use mulch to lock in soil moisture.

• Water deeply for better absorption.

• Install smart irrigation systems.

• Capture and reuse rainwater (where legal).

6. Create a Master Plan

Plan your landscape for the long term. Consider:

• Climate and soil type

• Drainage and sun exposure

• Native plants and wildlife

• How you and your family use the space

A well-designed plan saves water, money, and time – and gives you a sustainable lawn you can enjoy for years.

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