Many Britons concerned about their yellowing lawns need not worry, as the grass is likely dormant rather than dead, according to plant experts. Weeks of scorching sunshine and minimal rainfall have turned lush green gardens into straw-colored patches across the United Kingdom.
Dr. Stuart Thompson, an emeritus fellow in Plant Biochemistry at the University of Westminster, explained that grasses are highly resilient and adept at surviving dry conditions. "Under really dry conditions, such as those we are seeing at the moment, they have no choice but to shut down and wait for better conditions," he wrote for The Conversation. He noted that after previous droughts, areas that appeared dead have recovered with the return of rain.
Britain is currently experiencing a significant drought, with approximately 71.3 percent of England under drought status. July recorded only 10 percent of England's long-term average rainfall, making it the driest July on record. Across the entire UK, July was the third-driest on record, receiving only 35 percent of its average rainfall. This dry spell has continued into August, with only 5 percent of average August rainfall recorded by August 10. The prolonged lack of rain has put immense pressure on reservoirs, rivers, farmland, and gardens, leading to water restrictions for millions of people.
Dr. Thompson elaborated that during dry periods, the grass conserves its remaining water by moving it to the protected parts of the plant that will produce new leaves. The outer leaves dry out and die, aiding the critical growing parts. These growing centers also accumulate sugars that help them retain water and protect their cells. This mechanism causes the yellow appearance, a sign of self-preservation rather than complete death.
The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) advises that established lawns will typically recover and "green up again once rain returns." During dry spells, they recommend mowing less frequently and setting the mower height higher to encourage deeper root growth. Leaving grass clippings can also help retain moisture. The RHS suggests resisting the urge to water established lawns, as they will regrow when conditions improve, unless the lawn was recently laid or sown.
To better prepare lawns for future droughts, maintaining good health with strong growth and deep roots is essential. This can be achieved through regular lawn maintenance, including scarifying and aerating the soil. As summers are predicted to become hotter and drier due to climate change, experts suggest the public may need to adjust expectations about lawn appearance during dry periods.
