Sandy soil and drought are a tough combination but one that is all too common in many parts of the country. Sandy soil increases the effects of drought because it drains water rapidly, making it more difficult to find lawn grass that will survive dry conditions without regular irrigation.



    Overview

    If you live in an area with sandy soil and want to reduce irrigation to conserve water, choosing the right type of drought-tolerant grass is key. 

    The best options will depend on your climate zone and preferences for cool-season versus warm-season grasses. This article discusses the top drought-resistant grass varieties for sandy soils in different regions.


    Cool-Season Grasses for Sandy Soils

    If your area is suited to cool-season grasses, consider tall fescue, creeping red fescue, or hard fescue. These grasses are adapted to a wide range of soil types — including sandy soils — and they have good drought tolerance once established.

    • Tall fescue is one of the most popular cool-season turfgrasses. It has a deep root system that makes it quite drought-resistant.
    • Tall fescue tolerates heat, humidity, and some foot traffic. It stays green through cool weather and may go dormant in severe droughts.
    • There are many improved tall fescue varieties bred specifically for drought tolerance, such as RTF (rhizomatous tall fescue). These cultivars perform even better in dry conditions.
    • Creeping red fescue produces rhizomes that help it spread and establish. It has fine blades and a medium to dark green color.
    • Disadvantages are that it does not fill in quickly and struggles with heavy foot traffic. It may require more maintenance.
    • This grass thrives in sandy soils and requires less water than other cool-season grasses once established. It has good shade tolerance.
    • Hard fescue is a very hardy, drought-resistant grass with a deep root system. It handles poor, sandy soils quite well.
    • Hard fescue stays green in cold weather but may go dormant and turn brown during droughts. It does not tolerate heavy traffic.
    • It has a clumping growth habit rather than spreading via rhizomes or stolons. So it is slower to establish but forms a durable turf.

    Warm-Season Grasses for Sandy Soils

    Warm-season grasses like Zoysia, Bermuda, and Bahia perform well in hot climates and sandy soils. They have good heat and drought tolerance.

    • It has good drought tolerance thanks to its deep root system. Zoysia tolerates some foot traffic.
    • Zoysia is a warm-season grass that spreads aggressively via rhizomes and stolons. It chokes out weeds once established.
    • Zoysia is slow to establish and goes dormant in winter. It may require more maintenance when actively growing.
    • Bermuda grass is hardy, heat-tolerant, and aggressive. It spreads rapidly across bare ground and sandy soils via stolons and rhizomes.
    • It has excellent drought tolerance due to its deep roots. But it does require full sun and good drainage.
    • Potential drawbacks are that Bermuda grass turns brown in winter and requires frequent mowing when actively growing. It struggles in the shade.
    • Bahiagrass is a warm-season perennial known for its drought endurance. It performs well in infertile, sandy soils.
    • Disadvantages are that bahiagrass is not very cold hardy. It also has a more open, clumpy growth habit rather than forming a tight, dense turf.
    • It has a deep root system and wiry blades that conserve moisture. Bahia tolerates some foot traffic.

    Tips for Growing Grass in Sandy Soil

    Here are some additional tips for getting grass to thrive in sandy, drought-prone soils:

    • Check with your local garden center about grass varieties or seed mixes bred for your specific climate and soil conditions. Local options are often best.
    • Consider mixing in compost or top-dressing with organic matter annually to improve moisture retention. This helps sandy soils hold water better.
    • Dethatch and aerate periodically to improve root development in compacted sandy soils. Aerating every one to three years pokes holes for better water and air movement.
    • Leave grass clippings on the lawn to return nutrients and organic matter to the soil.
    • Use a starter fertilizer when planting new grass to encourage root growth. Then fertilize in fall and spring.
    • Water deeply and infrequently to develop deep roots, rather than frequent shallow watering. Adjust your schedule based on rainfall.

    fertilizer
    Image Credit: Canva

    Alternatives to Traditional Grass Lawns

    If you want to dramatically reduce or eliminate irrigation needs, consider alternatives to traditional grass lawns, such as:

    • Artificial grass or turf — this eliminates mowing and irrigation needs but has higher up-front costs.
    • Drought-tolerant groundcovers like sedum, liriope, or creeping thyme
    • Hardscaping options like mulch beds, patios, gravel yards, etc.
    • Low-growing native grasses that go dormant when dry

    Refer to Xeriscape or Landscaping with Drought-Tolerant Plants for more ideas.


    So, What Is the Best Grass for Sandy Soil and Drought Resistance?

    The best drought-resistant grass variety for your sandy soil depends on your climate zone and preferences. Cool-season grass lovers should consider tall fescue or fine fescues. Warm-season fans may prefer zoysia or bermudagrass. Check with local experts in your area for the top-rated cultivars for your region.

    You can also amend sandy soils with compost to improve moisture retention. Also, utilize water-saving lawn care practices to reduce irrigation demands. With the right grass selection and care, you can have an attractive lawn that withstands dry conditions.


    FAQs About Drought-Tolerant Grass for Sandy Soils

    Should I choose a warm-season or cool-season grass?

    Choose a grass suited to your climate. Cool-season grasses like fescue thrive in northern zones with mild summers. Warm-season grasses like zoysia perform better in hot, southern climates.


    How often should I water drought-resistant grass?

    Water deeply one or two times a week rather than frequent light watering. Adjust your watering schedule based on rainfall. Let grass go dormant and brown in severe droughts.


    What type of fertilizer is best?

    I find that it is best to use a starter fertilizer when planting new grass. Then, fertilize in fall and spring with a balanced slow-release fertilizer to encourage deep roots.


    Will I still need to mow drought-tolerant grass?

    Yes, continue mowing normally when the grass is growing actively to maintain the desired height. You can mow less when grass goes dormant during drought or cold weather.


    Should I dethatch or aerate my lawn?

    Dethatching removes thick layers of clippings and thatch. Aerating pokes holes to improve air, water, and nutrient penetration. In my experience, doing this periodically encourages deep rooting.


    Editorial Contributors
    avatar for Coty Perry

    Coty Perry

    Expert Writer & Reviewer

    Coty Perry is a lawn and garden writer for Today’s Homeowner. He focuses on providing homeowners with actionable tips that relate to the “Average Joe” who is looking to achieve a healthier and greener lawn. When he isn’t writing he can almost always be found coaching youth football or on some trail in Pennsylvania in search of the next greatest fishing hole.

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    Jeff Zoldy

    Jeff is a writer, editor, and marketer based in Charlotte, North Carolina. He has been editing on the Home Solutions team for over a year and is passionate about getting homeowners the information they need when they need it most. When he’s not working, Jeff can be found at baseball games, golfing, going to the gym, reading, watching movies, and playing video games.

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