Florida lawns don’t go fully dormant the way they do in colder states, but they do slow down and can appear dormant during the cooler months. Most warm-season grasses common in Florida—like St. Augustine, Bahia, Centipede, and Zoysia—naturally reduce growth when temperatures consistently dip below about 65°F and daylight hours shorten. In North and Central Florida, this typically occurs from late November to February. In South Florida, true dormancy is less common, but lawns may still lighten in color and grow more slowly during the winter period.

When your Florida grass appears dormant, the best thing you can do is adjust your care practices to support the lawn until spring. First, avoid the temptation to fertilize heavily. Grass can’t absorb nutrients efficiently in cooler soil, so late-winter fertilizing may lead to wasted product or even lawn damage. Instead, apply a winter fertilizer only if it is specifically labeled for cool-season use in Florida, or wait until temperatures warm in early spring. Continue mowing, but reduce frequency and raise the mowing height slightly. Taller blades help protect the crown of the grass and retain warmth.

Watering needs also change during dormancy. Overwatering is a common winter mistake. Grass uses less water in cool weather, and excess moisture can lead to fungal issues. Follow local watering restrictions and aim for irrigation only when the lawn shows signs of need—typically every 10 to 14 days in winter for most of Florida. If rainfall is sufficient, you can turn your irrigation timer off altogether.

Weed control becomes especially important during dormancy, since weeds remain active while grass growth slows. Applying a pre-emergent herbicide in late fall and a post-emergent spot treatment for visible weeds can help keep invaders at bay. Be sure the product is labeled for your specific grass type, as Florida turf species can be sensitive to certain chemicals.

If you dislike the brown or pale winter look, consider overseeding with ryegrass, especially in North and Central Florida. This temporary cool-season grass provides green color during the winter, then naturally dies out as temperatures rise. It’s optional but popular in some communities.

Dormancy in Florida lawns is normal and temporary. Adjust your watering, mowing, and weed control habits, and avoid excessive fertilization. Your turf will bounce back healthy and green as soon as spring returns.

If you have any questions about your lawn or need some help taking care of it contact the experts at ELT Landscape.