We have reached that time of year when cold temperatures have set in and sent most of our plants into dormancy. Turf grasses are not immune to this dormancy. In fact, dormancy acts as a shield of defense to susceptible plant tissues against cold damage. Turf dormancy is accompanied by a browning of the leaf blades and some shoot death. Instead of continuing normal metabolism rates, turf leaves reduce their metabolism and growth. Reduced metabolism means reduced transpiration. Transpiration is plant water loss through normal plant functions. This reduction in water loss or transpiration is why less irrigation is required in the winter months. This does not mean the turf can go without any water all winter, however.
