Bermuda grass, scientifically named Cynodondactylon, is perhaps one of the most versatile types of turf grass. It can survive extreme climate conditions, growing in a range of environments, from the desert to coastal areas. It also repairs itself and is tolerant against insects and diseases.

1. Can Bermuda Grass
Survive Drought?
U.S. Lawns

2. Bermuda grass, scientifically named Cynodondactylon, is perhaps one of the most versatile types of turf
grass. It can survive extreme climate conditions, growing in a range of environments, from the desert to
coastal areas. It also repairs itself and is tolerant against insects and diseases.
Characterized by dark green leaves that turn brown during colder temperatures, the Bermuda grass
spreads its extensive root system via rhizomes and stolons. The grass provides broad coverage, which is
why it is popularly used for golf courses, parks and lawns in the southern states of the U.S.
Bermuda grass and drought
The Bermuda grass’ ability to survive drought and extremely hot climates has always piqued curiosity.
According to a 2012 study, the grass’ ability to tolerate drought is attributed to its physiological
responses. The study assessed the genetic variations of several varieties of Bermuda grass. During tests,
scientists observed and compared the mechanisms involved in drought stress tolerance among the
different samples.

3. Higher drought tolerance, higher antioxidant enzyme activities
The nine varieties of Bermuda grass observed in the study exhibited different results in terms of drought
tolerance. Two varieties, the Tifway and Tifgreen, were found to be the most drought tolerant; five
varieties were found to be moderately tolerant; and two varieties, the Yukon and Wranger, were found to
be susceptible to drought. However, despite being susceptible, the Yukon and Wranger varieties exhibited
up to four hours of drought tolerance.
The study found that the Bermuda grass varieties that exhibited drought tolerance showed significantly
higher antioxidant enzyme activities. This is associated with the grass maintaining photosynthesis protein
and antioxidant defense. The study also found that drought stress caused oxidative stress to the Bermuda
grass. This led to an overproduction of hydrogen peroxide, which damaged proteins and nucleic acids in
the grass, as well as causing lipid peroxidation.
Changes in the physiological, biochemical, molecular and cellular mechanisms of the Bermuda grass may
also contribute to drought response, according to the study.

4. Sources:
https://uslawns.com/locations/tn/east-chattanooga/
https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0053422#s3
https://www.cabi.org/isc/datasheet/17463