Which Sod Variety Is More Drought Tolerant: Zoysia or Bermuda?

If you're choosing between Bermuda and Zoysia sod, one of the biggest questions is often, "Which grass handles drought better?" In West Tennessee and throughout the MidSouth, hot summers and periods of little rainfall make drought tolerance an important factor when selecting a lawn.

The good news is that both Bermuda and Zoysia are considered drought-tolerant warm-season grasses. However, they each perform a little differently when water becomes scarce.

Bermuda Grass: Built for Heat and Sunshine

Bermuda grass is well known for thriving in hot, sunny conditions. Once established, it has excellent drought tolerance and can recover quickly after receiving water.

Benefits of Bermuda grass include:

• Excellent heat tolerance

• Fast growth and recovery

• Handles heavy foot traffic well

• Performs best in full sun

• Requires less water than many cool-season grasses

  
  

During extended dry periods, Bermuda grass may turn brown and go dormant to conserve moisture. Once rainfall or irrigation returns, it typically greens back up quickly.

Zoysia Grass: Efficient Water Use

Zoysia is also highly drought tolerant, but it has a different growth habit than Bermuda.

Because Zoysia grows more densely and develops a deep root system, it often uses water more efficiently. Many homeowners appreciate that it can maintain an attractive appearance while requiring less frequent watering once fully established.

Benefits of Zoysia grass include:

• Excellent drought tolerance

• Dense, lush appearance

• Deep root system

• Slower growth, which often means less mowing

• Good resistance to weeds because of its thick growth

  
  

Like Bermuda, Zoysia may go dormant during prolonged drought but typically recovers when normal watering resumes.

So, Which One Wins?

The answer depends on your priorities.

Choose Bermuda if you want:

• A lawn that recovers quickly from wear and drought

• A grass that thrives in full sun

• A fast-growing lawn for active families and pets

  
  

Choose Zoysia if you want:

• A dense, carpet-like lawn

• Excellent drought tolerance with efficient water use

• A slower-growing lawn that generally requires less frequent mowing

• 
  

Keep in Mind: Proper Care Still Matters

No matter which variety you choose, even drought-tolerant sod needs proper care—especially during establishment.

For the first couple of weeks after installation, new sod should be watered daily to help the roots grow into the soil. Once established, both Bermuda and Zoysia become much more resilient during dry weather.

Proper mowing, fertilization, and watering practices will also help your lawn stay healthy throughout the hottest months of the year.

Need Help Choosing the Right Sod?

Every property is different. Sun exposure, soil conditions, traffic, and your maintenance preferences all play a role in selecting the best grass for your yard.

At Pickens Point Turf, we're happy to help homeowners, landscapers, and contractors choose the sod variety that best fits their needs. We proudly provide premium-quality Bermuda and Zoysia sod throughout West Tennessee and the MidSouth.

Contact Pickens Point Turf today to learn which sod is the best fit for your lawn and your lifestyle.