Now that the spring weather is settling in, the daily temperatures will be at a consistent 70 to 80 degrees. The warmer temperature will begin to trigger the annual turf transition from the ryegrass to the Bermuda grass as it is normal here in the Coachella Valley. This means that our winter rye grass will begin to expire to allow the summer Bermuda grass to resettle and come out of dormancy. During this transition process, you will begin to see “dry spots” where the ryegrass is diminishing on areas on the turf. As spring moves forward, we will increase irrigation watering to compensate for the higher temperatures and allow the Bermuda grass to reestablish. This will allow us to promptly fill in the dry spot with healthy Bermuda grass. Green-up and recovery of the Bermuda grass begins when night-time temperatures remain above 60 degrees for several days in the spring and soil temperatures reach 65 degrees at the four-inch depth.
We will continue to monitor this process to assure a smooth transition of the turf.
“Dry Spots” During Transition Period
For more information, please contact the Facilities Maintenance Department at 760-345-4349 ext. 2406.