A well-watered lawn prevents weeds from growing and makes grass less vulnerable to diseases or fungal infections. It also ensures the health of your soil and grass and promotes deeper root growth that helps lawns survive drought or stress.
Watering the right amount requires a little research, but using tools like rain gauges and empty tuna cans can help you get the hang of it. Contact Big Green Lawn Care to learn more.
Soil Type
The type of soil your lawn is in will influence how much and how often it needs to be watered. Different soil types have varying saturation levels, which are how long the soil holds moisture. The soil type also affects what the roots are able to absorb from the ground.
Sandy soils tend to drain quickly and may need to be watered more frequently. Clay soils hold water longer, but can oversaturate easily and be prone to fungal growth and thatch buildup. When lawns are overwatered, the roots only soak up the water in the top few inches of soil, leaving them unsatisfied and less tolerant to drought.
On the other hand, silty soils retain water well and are the gardener’s best friend. They are a good soil for vegetables and flowers, as they can be amended with organic matter to improve nutrient content and reduce their pH.
Soil composition can change over time due to weather, landscaping and building activities, making it difficult to determine the exact type of soil you have in your yard. Luckily, there are some simple DIY ways to test the soil’s quality. For instance, if the soil froths when it’s placed in vinegar, it is likely rich in calcium carbonate, which means it has an alkaline pH and is a chalky or limestone soil.
A few other factors to keep in mind when determining how much and how often to water your lawn are the season, grass type and sun/shade conditions. Cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass and fine fescue thrive in one to two inches of water weekly, but are sensitive to heat and can dry out quickly. They need to be watered more during the spring and late summer/early fall when they are growing most vigorously.
Shaded areas of the yard do not need as much water as yards that are exposed to constant sunlight, as the shade slows down the rate at which the soil dries out. It is also a good idea to avoid watering at night, as this can cause fungi to grow in the damp turf. Instead, watering in the early morning between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m. is preferred, as the cooler temperatures and lower evaporation rate allow the water to soak into the roots more efficiently.
Grass Type
A lawn’s grass type is a key factor in watering needs. Cool-season grasses such as Kentucky bluegrass, fine fescue and perennial ryegrass thrive in cooler climates. They need one to two inches of water weekly and will show signs of stress when they don’t receive enough moisture. Warm-season grasses like bermudagrass, buffalograss and zoysia are best suited for warm regions. They can tolerate dry conditions and need only about a half inch of water a week.
Soil type is also a crucial factor in determining how much and how often to water the lawn. Clay soils hold water well and may not require as frequent watering as sandy soils or loamy soils.
The type of sprinkler system should also be taken into consideration. Oscillating spray heads take longer to irrigate because they have to be moved around the lawn to ensure all areas are impacted. Rotary heads, on the other hand, are more efficient and can water a lawn in about 30 minutes.
Watering during the hotter parts of the day is not a good idea because up to half of the water may evaporate before it can reach deep into the roots of the grass. It’s best to water early in the morning when the sun is not yet high.
Grass types should be aligned with the region’s climate and soil type to promote optimal growth, resilience and beauty. Tailoring your care approach to the specific conditions in your yard maximizes lawn health and minimizes waste.
A healthy lawn requires a balance of different factors including mowing, fertilization, aeration and overseeding in addition to proper watering. The goal is to create an environment where grass grows strong and healthy with minimal weeds.
Inspecting your lawn for grubs is important because these pests feed on the roots of grass and can weaken it. A grub infestation also increases the amount of time you’ll spend watering and weeding your lawn. If you’re concerned about grubs in your lawn, consider a grub control program. It can be used to eliminate grubs in the soil and reduce the need for frequent, regular lawn watering.
Temperature
Soil hydration plays a critical role in lawn health, as well as the ability to withstand heat and drought. It’s not just about watering enough, but when and how. Intelligent irrigation practices maximize hydration and minimize waste, saving money and time while promoting healthy soil and turf.
Using the right sprinkler system and setting a smart schedule is essential for optimizing hydration. These strategies, coupled with other best practices like mowing, fertilization, aeration and weed control, promote deeper roots and more resilient grass that can thrive even in challenging conditions.
Watering in the morning is ideal, as it allows more of the moisture to soak into the soil before the sun hits the ground. When sprinkling, light sprays are better than heavy mists, which can wash the seeds away or make them clump together. New seeds should be lightly misted a few times a day until they sprout, and then watered a few times a week until they are ready to be mowed.
The type of soil also influences water retention. Clay soils hold moisture longer, while sandy soils drain quickly. In general, the deeper the soil, the less frequently it needs to be watered. A good way to check soil moisture is by pushing a screwdriver into the grass: If it goes in easily, the soil is well-hydrated. A soil moisture sensor removes the guesswork and allows precise readings to help you determine the perfect amount of water to use each week.
Overwatering leads to lush growth and summer fungal diseases, while underwatering creates shallow roots that are more susceptible to heat and drought. In addition, excessive watering contributes to runoff from lawns and gardens into paved surfaces, contaminating local water sources. Taking steps to reduce excess watering and improve soil health through organic matter and aeration can go a long way toward decreasing irrigation needs. A well-maintained yard is an investment in the value of your home, so it’s worth the effort to protect and nurture your lawn with smart hydration strategies. When paired with other best practices, including proper mowing, fertilization and aeration, your yard will be a beautiful green oasis that is both healthy and vibrant.
Sunlight
The amount of direct sunlight your yard receives affects the soil’s water retention. The more direct sunlight, the more your soil will dry out and require more frequent watering. Yards that are shaded will retain moisture longer and require less frequent watering.
Soil type also influences how quickly the grass absorbs water and how long it holds moisture. Clay soils retain water for a longer period of time, while sandy soils drain more rapidly. Loamy soils provide a balanced blend of retention and drainage that promotes healthy grass. To check your soil’s moisture level, simply squeeze a handful of dirt; clay will hold its shape while sandy soil will crumble. Alternatively, use a screwdriver test: Push the screwdriver into the ground. If the screwdriver sinks in easily, your soil is moist; if not, it’s time to water.
A typical lawn requires about an inch of water each week, including rainfall. Your local Cooperative Extension Service or your water utility can provide advice on how much to water based on climate and recent weather conditions. If you have an irrigation system, the easiest way to know if your lawn has received enough water is to use the tuna can method. Run the sprinklers until an empty tuna can fills with an inch of water; that’s about how much your lawn needs each week.
When you do water, it’s important to avoid daily light waterings; they encourage shallow roots and reduce the ability of your grass to withstand drought. Instead, water deeply once or twice a week; this will help to develop deeper roots and a healthier, more drought-tolerant lawn.
Aim for watering times early in the morning to reduce evaporation and prevent fungal disease. Watering in short cycles, letting the water soak before applying more, is efficient and effective. In addition, using a rain gauge can help you optimize your watering schedule. Like Goldilocks, you want to find the right balance of watering frequency and duration—and your yard will thank you for it!