How do I know if my plants are dormant or dead? (ASK Around)

If your grass or yard plants look brown and lifeless...when is it possible to revive them with some TLC, and when are they truly dead and need to be replaced? Here are some tips you can use if you're not sure how to interpret brown leaves or bare branches.

First, what is dormancy? Plants are energy-efficient, and they enter a state of dormancy (go dormant) to rest and conserve resources when conditions aren't favorable for growth. This is common over the winter, for example trees and shrubs that drop their leaves. It's also something to be aware of during the heat of summer, particularly for cool-season grasses or during a drought. Dormant plants are still alive; they're just not actively growing at the moment, so they may appear dry and brown at first glance.

The difference between a dead plant and a dormant plant lies under the surface. Below the soil, the roots of dormant grass are still alive, and under the bark, a dormant shrub or tree will still be soft and green with life. So how can you find out which one it is--without damaging your plants?

• For grass, you can check the roots with a small trowel. Dormant plants will still maintain firm, flexible roots. The roots of dead plants might be brittle, mushy, or shriveled up, depending on moisture levels in the soil. Click here to read more about distinguishing different causes that can turn your grass brown.
• For larger plants, perform a gentle scratch test: lightly scrape a small section of bark or outer tissue near the base of the plant. If it’s brown and dry underneath, your plant is unlikely to revive, but if it’s green, the plant has likely just gone dormant.
• What about a living tree or shrub that could have some dead branches? Check for flexibility. Living stems and branches can usually bend slightly without snapping, while dead ones will often crack cleanly.

Dormancy is a natural part of a plant’s life cycle, a way of putting up defenses during harsh conditions until the environment is favorable again. With a little time, a combination of adequate temperature, light, and moisture levels can coax your dormant plants back to vibrant life. If you're still on the fence between replacing weakened plants/grass and nourishing them back to health, reach out to us at SoilKit through an ASK the Expert consultation. We're here to help!