Conservation & Drought

Watering Your Lawn

Wise watering practices not only conserve water but help to build a stronger, healthier lawn. Constant overwatering or frequent underwatering promotes shallow roots, a sure way to damage your lawn during times of stress. 

These stressful times for your lawn include not only the hot summer months but also the cold winter months when there is really nothing you can do for an unhealthy lawn. The healthiest lawns have the healthiest roots. The best watering practices moisten the soil 4 to 6 inches deep; this is the extent of the root zone and requires only about 1 inch of water.

When to Water Your Lawn

Water your lawn at the first signs of moisture stress. The easiest way to tell if moisture stress is present is to look for footprints on your lawn. When you can see footprints on your lawn (meaning your lawn doesn’t spring back up after you have walked across it) water your lawn. Do not water again until you see footprints again. 

Water when the sun will cause the least evaporation. Watering in the early morning is best. The next best practice is to water in the evening but do it early enough so the grass is not wet overnight, which could enhance fungal growth. Other signs include a bluish-gray color, wilted, folded, or curled leaves.