8September 2025
When summer heat hits hard in Bergen County, NJ, many homeowners worry about their lawns turning brown. But here’s the good news: if you have cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass, ryegrass, or fescue, a brown lawn in midsummer doesn’t always mean your grass is dead. It could just be dormant—a natural survival strategy that helps your lawn endure hot, dry conditions.
What Is Lawn Dormancy?
Dormancy is your lawn’s way of conserving energy during stress. Instead of putting energy into green blades, the grass focuses on keeping its crown (the growing point near the soil) alive. This is why dormant lawns look brown and dry above ground, but are still alive below the surface.
Learn more about lawn watering best practices to avoid stress during hot months.
Why You Should Let Grass Go Dormant
Trying to “force” growth with heavy watering or fertilization during high heat can do more harm than good. Dormancy is nature’s built-in protection system. Allowing your lawn to rest during these periods has benefits:
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Prevents stress – Your lawn won’t waste energy trying to grow in harsh conditions.
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Saves water – You’ll avoid overwatering when grass can’t actually use it efficiently.
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Promotes recovery – When cooler temperatures return, dormant grass usually greens up quickly.
How to Care for Dormant Grass
Even though you shouldn’t try to revive your grass during dormancy, it does need minimal care:
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Water occasionally: Provide about ½ inch of water every 2–3 weeks to keep the crown alive.
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Avoid mowing too short: Taller grass provides shade and reduces heat stress. (See our post on mowing height tips).
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Hold off on fertilizing: Fertilizer won’t help dormant grass—it could even cause damage.
According to The Lawn Institute, minimal maintenance during dormancy is key to long-term lawn health.
When Will My Lawn Bounce Back?
Once temperatures cool down in late summer or early fall, and consistent rainfall returns, your grass should green up again within a few weeks. If areas don’t recover, overseeding in the fall is a great way to thicken your lawn.
Final Thoughts
Don’t panic if your lawn looks brown during a hot Bergen County summer—it may just be resting. By letting grass go dormant and giving it light care, you’ll set it up for a strong comeback in the cooler months.
✅ Get Professional Lawn Care Help in Bergen County, NJ
At QuietCare Landscaping, we specialize in sustainable lawn care that keeps your grass healthy year-round. Whether your lawn is dormant, patchy, or in need of seasonal maintenance, our team can help it bounce back stronger than ever.
Call us today at 201-663-5387 or request a free estimate online.