Winter’s Effect on Lawns in Florida
You can lay sod any time of the year in Florida, but winter dormancy can change the way your lawn looks. Here’s the science behind it:
Florida’s warm-season grasses naturally go dormant when soil temperatures drop below 50°F. It’s important to remember this refers to soil temperature—not the air. During winter, shorter days also play a big role. With less sunlight, all grass varieties slow their growth. For example, December averages only about 9 hours of daylight, compared to nearly 15 hours in July.
Your location in the state also affects how your lawn behaves in winter.
- North Florida (Orlando and above): Dormant sod is very likely.
- Central Florida (Orlando to St. Petersburg): Sod may or may not go dormant depending on how cold the season is.
- South Florida (below St. Petersburg): Sod often stays green all winter unless there’s a rare freeze.
Winter Lawn Care
A common misconception is that your lawn doesn’t need care during the winter. It definitely still does—just with a slightly different approach.
Continue watering, but reduce the frequency since cooler weather slows evaporation. If you want to give your lawn a nutrient boost, consider using a nitrogen-based fertilizer to help maintain health going into spring. Concerned about weeds? A product containing Atrazine works well as both a pre- and post-emergent.
One important note: avoid applying liquid treatments right before a freeze. Always check the weather before treating your lawn.
Florida Winters: Dormant Sod Guide
Why does sod go dormant & brown in the winter?
- Warm-season grasses (like Florida native Zoysia, Bermuda & St. Augustine) naturally go dormant in cooler months.
- Dormant sod is in "sleep mode" to protect itself until warmer weather returns.
- Cooler temperatures slow or even halt the grass’ vertical growth, but the root structure remains healthy.
- Grass changing colors to gold or brown is normal-your grass is not dead!
Benefits of installing dormant sod:
- Dormant sod still has a healthy, strong root system & installing it voids the stress of planting during Florida' hot summer months.
- Reduces mud, dust, weeds & erosion.
- Provides instant curb appeal for your lawn.
Caring for dormant sod:
- Dormant sod still needs water, especially when newly installed.
- Florida's winter rains help, but watch for dry, windy days that can cause sod to dry out.
- Make sure sod is laid on loose, prepared soil and pressed down for good root contact. (See our laying guide)
Spring green-up & coming out of dormancy:
- Sod starts to "wake up" as soil warms back up (above ~65°F). The roots wake up first, followed by green blades & new growth.
- Once sod is out of dormancy & you see new growth, mow at your normal height to slowly remove frost damaged blades.
- Wait until after the last frost of winter to fertilize and help sod recover from winter.
- Apply pre-emergent herbicide in early spring (Feb-March) to stop weeds before they start.
Dormant sod is a healthy, natural choice for Florida lawns in cooler months. With proper care & a little spring follow-through, your lawn will “wake up” lush & green!
