How Cold Weather Affects St. Augustine & Bahia Grass in Manatee County
Even in sunny Florida, winter temperatures can impact your lawn. In Manatee County, St. Augustine and Bahia grass are the most common turf types, and both react differently when cold weather arrives. Understanding what’s normal—and what’s not—can help you protect your lawn and prepare for a healthy spring.
Do Lawns Go Dormant in Manatee County?
Unlike northern states, lawns in Manatee County rarely go fully dormant. However, cooler temperatures, shorter days, and occasional cold fronts can slow grass growth and change how your lawn looks and behaves.
January is typically a maintenance and protection month, not a growth month.
How Cold Weather Affects St. Augustine Grass
St. Augustine grass is popular for its thick, green appearance—but it’s also more sensitive to cold.
Common Winter Effects:
Slower growth or no growth
Yellowing or browning, especially after cold nights
Increased vulnerability to disease if overwatered
Thinning in shaded areas
St. Augustine grass may look stressed after temperatures dip below 50°F, but this is usually temporary.
How to Care for St. Augustine in Winter:
Raise mowing height slightly (don’t scalp)
Reduce watering—overwatering can cause fungal issues
Avoid fertilizing until spring
How Cold Weather Affects Bahia Grass
Bahia grass is more cold-tolerant and drought-resistant than St. Augustine, making it a favorite for larger properties and low-maintenance lawns.
Common Winter Effects:
Light browning or dull color
Very slow growth
Patchy appearance in colder areas
Bahia grass tends to recover quickly once temperatures warm, even if it looks rough in January.
How to Care for Bahia in Winter:
Mow less frequently
Avoid heavy fertilization
Watch for winter weeds
Maintain proper drainage
Cold Snaps & Frost: What Manatee County Homeowners Should Know
Occasional cold snaps can cause:
Temporary leaf damage
Discoloration
Stress that carries into early spring
Good news: Most cold damage in Manatee County lawns is cosmetic and reversible with proper care.
Avoid cutting damaged grass immediately—wait until consistent warmer weather returns.
Winter Weed Control Is Key
While grass growth slows, weeds thrive in cooler temperatures. Winter weeds like clover and chickweed can quickly take over weakened turf.
Professional pre-emergent and spot treatments in January can prevent bigger weed problems later.
How Westfall’s Lawn & Pest Control Can Help
At Westfall’s Lawn & Pest Control, we understand how Florida’s unique winters affect local lawns. Our team provides:
Customized winter lawn care plans
Weed prevention treatments
Lawn health evaluations
Spring prep services
If your lawn doesn’t look its best this winter, don’t worry—we can help it bounce back.
Contact Westfall’s Lawn & Pest Control today to schedule a winter lawn evaluation in Manatee County.