Lawn Care Guide for Bon Homme County
Bon Homme County, South Dakota
Data Story
About Lawn Care in Bon Homme County, South Dakota
Tougher Conditions in Bon Homme
Bon Homme County scores a 48.5 on lawn difficulty, making it more challenging than both the state and national averages. Homeowners in this Zone 5a area must work harder to maintain healthy turf compared to their neighbors.
High Precipitation Meets High Heat
At 26.2 inches, this county receives more rain than the state average of 22.8 inches, yet it still faces 26 extreme heat days. The high growing degree day count of 2,941 suggests a very active mowing season from spring through fall.
Slightly Alkaline Soil Texture
The soil pH of 7.09 is slightly above the ideal range, which can occasionally limit the availability of certain micronutrients. A balanced blend of 24.0% clay and 26.9% sand provides a decent structure, though sulfur amendments may help lower pH.
Severe Drought Challenges Growth
Over half the county is currently in severe drought, and the region suffered through 40 weeks of drought in the last year. These intense conditions require strict water management and potentially letting lawns go dormant to survive.
Longer Growing Season for Lawns
The frost-free window between May 1st and October 7th is generous for this region. Heat-tolerant cool-season blends are your best bet to survive the 26 days of 90-degree weather.
Lawn Difficulty Score
Recommended Grasses
Buffalograss
Bouteloua dactyloides
Blue Grama
Bouteloua gracilis
Tall Fescue
Festuca arundinacea
Climate Snapshot
Annual Precip
26.2"
Growing Degree Days
2,941.4
Base 50F
Last Spring Frost
05/01
First Fall Frost
10/07
Days Above 95F
26
Hardiness Zone
5a
Seeding Calendar — Zone 5A
Seasonal Lawn Care Checklist
Spring
- Apply pre-emergent herbicide when soil reaches 55F
- Overseed bare spots once frost risk passes
- Start irrigation if rainfall is below 1 inch/week
- Soil test every 2-3 years — adjust lime or sulfur as needed
Summer
- Mow at recommended height weekly
- Water deeply 1-2 times per week (1 inch total)
- Avoid fertilizing cool-season grasses in peak heat
- Scout for grubs and treat if >10 per sq ft
Fall
- Core aerate compacted areas
- Apply fall fertilizer (highest N application for cool-season)
- Continue mowing until growth stops
- Rake or mulch leaves to prevent smothering
Winter
- Avoid walking on frozen turf
- Service mower and sharpen blades
- Plan spring soil amendments based on fall test
- Keep lawn clear of debris
Watering Deficit Calculator
Monthly Deficit
1.7"
inches of water
Monthly Water
5,140
gallons
Estimated Monthly Cost
$41.12
at $0.008/gallon average
Estimates based on 26" annual precipitation and estimated evapotranspiration. Actual costs vary by local water rates.
Common Lawn Problems in Bon Homme County
Persistent Drought Conditions
Bon Homme County experienced drought conditions for 40 of the past 52 weeks. Prioritize water-efficient grasses and consider reducing lawn area.
Learn more about regional lawn challenges at The Lawn Report.
Want detailed soil composition, drainage classes, and soil series data? View soil details on SoilByCounty.com
Data sourced from USDA SSURGO, NOAA Climate Normals (1991-2020), USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map, and US Drought Monitor. Lawn difficulty scores and grass recommendations are estimates for informational purposes only.
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