What happens to warm season grasses in cold temperatures?

Warm season grasses are specifically adapted to thrive in warmer temperatures and generally exhibit optimal growth during the spring and summer months. When exposed to cold temperatures, these grasses enter a period of dormancy as a natural survival mechanism. During this dormancy phase, their metabolic processes slow down significantly, which allows them to conserve energy and endure unfavorable conditions. This is why they turn brown – a visual indicator of their dormancy rather than a sign of death. The grasses do not actively grow or thrive in cold temperatures, and though they may look unappealing during this time, they are still alive and can regenerate when warmer conditions return.