Which lawns have the best drought tolerance?

As South Australians, we know all too well the challenges posed by our dry, temperate climate. With climate change making our weather patterns even more unpredictable, considering drought tolerance when choosing a lawn is more critical than ever.

For a wide range of reasons, lawns are entrenched in suburban Australian culture. Whether it be for communal recreational spaces, sports surfaces or for around the home, lawns are here to stay. The question that this blog raises is how will our use, expectations and maintenance of lawns need to change in the context of drought? We’ll explore the importance of drought tolerance, what it means for our lawns, and the best varieties to consider for a resilient green space.

What is drought?

According to the Bureau of Meteorology, “drought is a prolonged, abnormally dry period when available water is insufficient to meet our normal use.”

Because people use water in so many different ways, there is no universal definition of drought. For example, meteorologists monitor the extent and severity of drought in terms of rainfall deficiencies, and agriculturalists rate the impact on primary industries. For the sake of this blog, we’ll define it by its impact on lawns and how it might change our expectations of how we use lawns and how we want them to look and perform.

Why is drought tolerance important to consider in the context of lawns?

When it comes to our outdoor spaces, we often have specific visions of how we want our lawns to look and function. However, in a drought-prone region, our expectations need to adapt. Drought-tolerant lawns can definitely survive under low-water conditions, providing a viable solution for those who want a green space without excessive water usage.

When researching lawns, you’ll often see the words “Drought tolerant” used when describing the benefits of some varieties. Drought tolerance refers to a lawn’s ability to withstand extended periods of low water availability. Some grasses, particularly warm-season varieties known as C4 grasses, are better suited for our climate. They thrive in hot conditions and can endure dry spells by going dormant rather than dying off completely.

What are the best varieties?

In our local marketplace, two standout options for drought tolerance are Couch and Kikuyu grasses. Being warm-season C4 grasses, both varieties have remarkable abilities to adapt to drought conditions. When water becomes scarce, these grasses will gradually lose their vibrant colour and enter dormancy, patiently waiting for the next rain. Once moisture returns, they quickly spring back to life, greening up our yards once again. You’ll often see this cycle in your neighbourhood where neglected lawns dry off in summer and then green up in the Autumn again when it rains.

There are many brands of kikuyu and couch available in South Australia, all vying for your attention. They’ll all claim to outdo each other in the drought-tolerant stakes; however, I can assure you that the difference between them is minimal when comparing drought tolerance. Don’t get too caught up in this, and instead, focus on how you prepare and maintain your lawn to enhance its resilience during dry spells.

My recommendation for the best couch and kikuyu varieties that are tried and proven in South Australia are:

Couch: Santa Ana.

This proven performer is still as popular as ever. We recently supplied Santa Ana for the Unley Oval redevelopment and the Coopers Brewery redevelopment and continue to supply it to most of Adelaide’s golf courses. Santa Ana is equally at home in your home, too and is hard to beat for drought tolerance, durability and it’s fantastic looks.

Kikuyu: Fine Leaf Kikuyu

Fine Leaf kikuyu is supremely suited to Adelaide’s temperate climate. It’s unbeatable for durability, remains green all year round, and will do all of this with minimal water. It’s our most popular lawn, and for good reason – you’ll also find that it’s the best value for money!

Preparing your lawn to be drought-tollerant

Beyond choosing the right grass variety, there are several strategies to consider for maintaining a healthy lawn in South Australia’s dry conditions:

1. Soil Preparation

Properly prepared soil enhances water retention and promotes deeper root growth, making your lawn more drought-resistant. Read more here

2. Soil Moisture Maintenance

Use liquid soil-wetting agents and moisture-retaining products regularly during the summer to help your lawn absorb and retain water more effectively. I’d recommend applying these products at an interval of about 6-8 weeks during the warm months. You’d be amazed at the difference this makes. Read more here

3. Lawn Fertilising

Regular fertilising will strengthen your grass no end, helping it cope better during dry periods. Choose fertilisers that promote root health and drought resistance, such as Paul Munns Emerald Green and Paul Munns Greenkeeper.

4. Efficient Irrigation Systems

Installing a water-efficient irrigation system ensures your lawn receives the necessary moisture it needs without excessive waste. Consider a sub-surface drip system or stream rotor pop-up sprinklers such as Rain Bird RVANs or Hunter MP rotators. While this is an upfront cost, it’s well worth it to get the best out of your lawn. Read more here

5. Manage Your Expectations

A key to sustainable lawn care is managing your expectations. A lawn doesn’t have to be lush and dark green to be healthy. By adjusting your expectations, you can maintain a functional lawn while using minimal water.

In South Australia, choosing a drought-tolerant lawn is not just about aesthetics—it’s about making sustainable choices in the face of changing climate conditions. By selecting the right varieties, preparing your soil, and employing smart maintenance practices, you can create a lawn that thrives, even in our region’s challenging dry spells. Embrace the beauty of drought-tolerant grasses and enjoy a vibrant outdoor space that respects our precious water resources.