TechNotes Tips - 06.06.02

Weather patterns are causing extreme conditions across the United States. Drought conditions remain severe in many parts of the country. The drought conditions from Georgia to Pennsylvania are improving slowly while the hot dry weather for the last 8 weeks along the Gulf Coast and through central and southwest Texas has intensified drought conditions. The Ohio and Mississippi valleys however have been receiving heavy rains for the last few months (source: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)).

In northern areas where drought conditions exist and water restrictions are in place, expect Kentucky bluegrass to go dormant. Kentucky bluegrass can remain dormant almost indefinitely without injury. In most cases Kentucky bluegrass will not die from lack of moisture and should green up once moist conditions arrive.

Droughty Kentucky bluegrass lawns are susceptible to chinchbug damage during June and early July. Chinchbug damage is similar in appearance to “drought damage”.