Quick answer
Bermuda goes dormant in drought to protect itself, and it often recovers once watering or rain returns. Check the crowns and runners before assuming it's dead.
Dormant or Dead?
Pull back the brown blades and look at the base of the plant and the runners. White or green tissue and firm crowns mean the grass is alive. Dry, brittle runners that crumble suggest it's dead.
Recovery Steps
- Resume deep, infrequent watering
- Raise the mower height
- Avoid heavy fertilizer until the lawn is actively growing
- Aerate compacted areas to help water soak in
If It's Dead
Small areas usually fill in from surrounding Bermuda. Large dead areas may need sod.