Bermuda grass is a popular lawn choice in Gilbert, Arizona thanks to its heat tolerance, durability, and dense green appearance. But to keep it looking sharp through scorching summers and seasonal shifts, you need a year-round care strategy. This guide breaks down how to maintain Bermuda grass in Gilbert — from mowing and watering to fertilizing and seasonal prep.
Why Bermuda Grass Works in Gilbert
This warm-season grass thrives in the high temperatures and full sun common to Gilbert yards. It grows rapidly in late spring and summer, forming a thick mat that resists weeds and tolerates heavy foot traffic. Bermuda also recovers quickly from damage, making it great for active families and pets.
Seasonal Lawn Care Calendar
- Spring (March–May): Begin mowing as new green growth emerges. Apply pre-emergent weed control and fertilize with nitrogen.
- Summer (June–August): Mow frequently, water deeply, and fertilize every 4–6 weeks.
- Fall (September–November): Gradually reduce watering and mowing as growth slows. Consider overseeding with ryegrass for winter color.
- Winter (December–February): Bermuda grass goes dormant and turns brown — avoid fertilizing and reduce watering to once per month.
Mowing Best Practices
Bermuda grass prefers a lower mowing height than other grasses. Set your mower to 1.5–2 inches in spring and summer. Mow often enough that you never remove more than one-third of the grass height in a single session. Sharp blades are key — dull ones tear the blades, making them more vulnerable to disease.
Watering Bermuda Grass in the Desert
Bermuda grass needs deep, infrequent watering to develop strong roots. In Gilbert’s summer heat, water 2–3 times per week, applying about 1 inch total. Water in early morning to reduce evaporation. Use a soil probe or screwdriver test — if it doesn’t penetrate 6 inches easily, it’s time to water.
Fertilization Tips
Apply a high-nitrogen fertilizer during the active growing season (April–September). Use slow-release formulas for consistent growth. Avoid over-fertilizing late in the season — it can lead to excessive top growth at the expense of roots, especially before dormancy.
Common Lawn Issues and Solutions
- Yellowing patches? Could be iron deficiency — apply a chelated iron product.
- Thatch buildup? Dethatch in late spring using a vertical mower or rake.
- Weeds? Use pre-emergent herbicide in early spring and spot treat with post-emergents.
- Compacted soil? Aerate once a year in late spring to allow water and nutrients to reach the roots.
Overseeding for Winter Color
Bermuda goes dormant and brown in winter, but you can overseed with perennial ryegrass in October for a green lawn year-round. Scalp the Bermuda lawn (mow very low), then broadcast seed evenly and water lightly several times per day until established. Resume normal watering after germination.
Trimming and Edging Tips
Neat edges make your lawn look professional. Use a string trimmer or edging tool along driveways, sidewalks, and beds. Trim weekly to prevent overgrowth and keep a clean visual line around your lawn’s perimeter.
Preparing Soil for a Healthy Bermuda Lawn
Before planting or repairing Bermuda grass, start with good soil prep. Loosen the top 4–6 inches of soil and remove rocks or debris. In Gilbert, clay-heavy soils can benefit from compost or sand amendments. Level the area and lightly water before laying seed or sod. For seasonal prep guidance, consult our April Yard Checklist for Gilbert.
Bermuda Grass Varieties That Thrive in Arizona
- Common Bermuda: Durable and drought-tolerant, often used in residential lawns.
- Hybrid Bermuda: Finer texture and denser appearance, but requires more care and regular mowing.
- Celebration or Tifway 419: Popular cultivars in Gilbert that offer better color and weed resistance.
Not sure which type to choose? Get help from local nurseries or explore cultivar guides from the University of Arizona Cooperative Extension.
Making Your Lawn More Sustainable
Maintaining Bermuda grass doesn’t have to conflict with conservation. Use smart controllers to time irrigation properly, avoid midday watering, and mulch grass clippings instead of bagging them. To reduce your water load further, consider integrating decorative beds filled with native plants — like those in our Top Drought-Resistant Plants article.
Spring Lawn Transitions and Renovation
As spring warms up, your Bermuda grass will begin to green up again. This is the perfect time to reseed bare patches, check for compacted soil, and tune up irrigation. Need a full spring transition checklist? Don’t miss our Spring Lawn & Landscape Tips.
How to Revive a Damaged Bermuda Lawn
If your Bermuda lawn looks patchy or thin coming out of winter or a dry spell, don’t panic. First, scalp the lawn (mow very short) in late March to remove old thatch. Apply a balanced fertilizer and begin deep watering. Reseed sparse areas with Bermuda seed or apply fresh sod in April. Avoid foot traffic on new growth until it’s established.
Checklist for Maintaining Bermuda Grass in Gilbert
- ✅ Mow regularly at 1.5–2 inches during growing season
- ✅ Water deeply 2–3 times per week in summer
- ✅ Fertilize every 4–6 weeks with nitrogen-rich formula
- âś… Aerate once per year in late spring
- ✅ Dethatch if buildup exceeds ½ inch
- âś… Overseed with ryegrass in fall for winter color
- âś… Use pre-emergent herbicide in early spring
- âś… Edge and trim weekly for clean appearance
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to maintain Bermuda grass in Gilbert ensures your lawn stays green, dense, and healthy despite Arizona’s extreme climate. By following seasonal care, mowing properly, and staying on top of watering and fertilization, you’ll enjoy a vibrant yard all year. Use our internal guides and trusted resources to make your lawn care routine simple and sustainable.
Don’t forget — consistency is key. A few minutes each week spent mowing, inspecting, or adjusting irrigation can prevent big issues later. With proper care, Bermuda grass offers one of the most rewarding lawns for Gilbert homeowners: heat-tolerant, low-maintenance, and strikingly green when healthy. Keep this guide handy and refer to YardBonita throughout the year for local lawn insights tailored to Arizona living.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water Bermuda grass in Gilbert, AZ?
During the summer, water deeply 2–3 times per week in the early morning. Adjust frequency based on rainfall and soil moisture depth.
What is the best mowing height for Bermuda grass?
Maintain a height of 1.5 to 2 inches during the active growing season. Mow frequently enough to avoid removing more than one-third of the blade height.
Can Bermuda grass survive Arizona winters?
Yes, but it goes dormant and turns brown. You can overseed with ryegrass in fall if you prefer a green lawn through winter.
When should I fertilize Bermuda grass in Gilbert?
Start in April and continue every 4–6 weeks through September. Use a nitrogen-rich, slow-release fertilizer.