Bermuda Spring Scalping
Dead brown grass (2.5"+ from fall) blocks green growth below — must remove dead layer. Scalp to 50% of desired growing height (want 1.5" → scalp to 3/4"). When to scalp: when full green haze appears across entire lawn, daily temps consistently reaching 70s. Late March-early April in GA. Very hard on equipment. Can scalp gradually over 4-6 weeks instead of one day.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is bermuda scalping?
Scalping is cutting bermuda very low in early spring to remove dead, brown material from winter dormancy. This exposes the soil to sunlight, warming it faster and promoting earlier green-up.
How low should I scalp bermuda?
Scalp bermuda down to about half an inch, or as low as your mower allows. Bag the clippings to remove the dead material. The goal is to expose soil to sunlight, not to cut living grass.
When should I scalp bermuda?
Scalp in late winter to early spring just before green-up begins. Timing varies by location — typically February in the deep South and March further north. Scalp before the grass starts producing new green growth.
Related Guides
Get a free lawn plan for your yard
Completely free. No credit card required.