Lawn Care Guide for Somervell County
Somervell County, Texas
Data Story
About Lawn Care in Somervell County, Texas
Central Texas Lawn Stability
Somervell County maintains a 38.5 lawn score, placing it ahead of the Texas state average of 31.7. This Zone 8b region offers a slightly more predictable environment for turf than the state’s more arid western reaches.
Heat and Hydration Balance
Annual precipitation averages 34.3 inches, which is just enough to meet the 30-50 inch ideal requirement for grass. However, 109 extreme heat days mean high evaporation rates, so your watering schedule remains critical for success.
Testing Your Foundation
While specific soil composition data is limited for this area, the region’s 38.5 score suggests a baseline level of stability. Testing your individual lot for pH and texture is essential before making major amendments or choosing grass types.
Conserving Water Locally
The county currently has 100% of its area in abnormally dry conditions after 15 weeks of drought this past year. Implementing xeriscaping borders can help reduce the total water footprint of your landscape during the hottest months.
Choosing the Right Turf
Bermudagrass is a standard choice for this region, known for its ability to bounce back after the 109 heat days. Wait until after the March 28th frost to begin seeding for the most reliable results in this zone.
Lawn Difficulty Score
Recommended Grasses
Bermudagrass
Cynodon dactylon
Climate Snapshot
Annual Precip
34.3"
Growing Degree Days
6,106.9
Base 50F
Last Spring Frost
03/28
First Fall Frost
11/07
Days Above 95F
109
Hardiness Zone
8b
Seeding Calendar — Zone 8B
Seasonal Lawn Care Checklist
Spring
- Apply pre-emergent herbicide when soil reaches 55F
- Begin mowing when grass reaches 3 inches
- Start irrigation if rainfall is below 1 inch/week
- Soil test every 2-3 years — adjust lime or sulfur as needed
Summer
- Raise mowing height to reduce heat stress
- 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
- Overseed warm-season lawns if thinning
- Apply fall fertilizer (highest N application for cool-season)
- Continue mowing until growth stops
- Rake or mulch leaves to prevent smothering
Winter
- Apply pre-emergent for winter weeds
- Service mower and sharpen blades
- Plan spring soil amendments based on fall test
- Overseed with ryegrass for winter color
Watering Deficit Calculator
Monthly Deficit
1.3"
inches of water
Monthly Water
3,978
gallons
Estimated Monthly Cost
$31.82
at $0.008/gallon average
Estimates based on 34" annual precipitation and estimated evapotranspiration. Actual costs vary by local water rates.
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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