Seasonal Turf Tips for Arizona & California: How to Keep Your Lawn Thriving This Winter

As winter settles into Arizona and California, homeowners and property managers face a unique set of challenges—and opportunities—when it comes to maintaining healthy, beautiful turf. While many parts of the country hunker down for hard freezes and dormant landscapes, the West Coast and Southwest enjoy a milder, more flexible season for lawn care. At West Coast Turf, we know that understanding these regional nuances is the key to keeping your grass performing at its best year-round.

Cooler Weather, Stronger Roots

Winter is one of the most important times for developing strong root systems, especially if you’re growing cool-season varieties or overseeded turf. In California’s coastal regions and much of Arizona’s desert climate, daytime temperatures stay ideal for slow, steady growth. This allows roots to deepen without the stress of extreme heat.

If you overseeded bermudagrass with perennial ryegrass this fall, now is the time to encourage healthy establishment. Maintain consistent irrigation—less than you’d apply in summer, but enough to prevent drying. In most areas, lawns only need about half an inch of water per week during winter. Deep, infrequent watering is best for promoting strong root development.

Seasonally Smart Mowing Practices

In both states, winter growth slows, but it doesn’t stop entirely. Continue mowing as needed, keeping your mower height slightly higher than during the growing season. This protects the grass from moisture loss and temperature fluctuations. For overseeded ryegrass, maintain a height of 1.25″–1.5″ to support a dense, vibrant winter lawn.

If your bermudagrass is not overseeded, you can reduce mowing dramatically. The grass will be dormant and golden, but healthy beneath the surface. Resist the urge to scalp or cut too short—this can damage the crown and delay spring green-up.

Fertilizing for Winter Success

Winter is a great time to feed cool-season grasses, especially in California’s mild coastal zones and Arizona’s winter lawns. Choose a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to support ongoing growth without encouraging excessive top growth. For dormant bermudagrass, skip nitrogen but consider applying a potassium-rich fertilizer to improve stress tolerance and support spring recovery.

If you’re not sure which product to use, West Coast Turf offers region-specific recommendations that take into account soil type, temperature patterns, and turf variety.

Watch for Winter Weeds

Cooler weather invites broadleaf weeds like clover, dandelion, and spurge. Keep an eye on your lawn and address weeds early to prevent spread. A pre-emergent applied in late winter can help prepare for spring, especially in warmer Arizona regions where weed cycles start early.

Prepare for Spring Now

Even though winter feels quiet, it’s the ideal time to plan spring renovations. If your lawn struggled last summer or you’re thinking about installing new sod, use the cooler season to assess soil health, irrigation efficiency, and turf variety. West Coast Turf’s lineup includes drought-tolerant bermudagrass and low-maintenance blends perfect for the changing water regulations in both Arizona and California.

Winter lawn care in Arizona and California is about working with the season rather than against it. With mild temperatures, manageable growth, and fewer pests, now is the time to support root health, enforce smart mowing habits, and prepare for a lush spring. Whether you manage a backyard, a sports field, or a commercial landscape, West Coast Turf is here with the turf varieties and expert guidance to keep your lawn thriving all year long. For more information visit: westcoastturf.com