Like the rest of your landscaping, your grass needs water to grow, flourish, and establish healthy root systems. But there’s more to proper watering than you’d think. Fortunately, our team at Lawn Pride® can help with this handy guide to watering your lawn.
How Long Should You Water Your Lawn?
Generally speaking, grass needs roughly one inch of water per week. Standard sprinkler systems generate about ½ inch of water every 30 minutes. With that in mind, you’ll typically need to water your lawn for about one hour per week.
Not sure if your turf is getting enough water? Grab a screwdriver. If your lawn has been adequately watered, the soil should be saturated six to eight inches below the surface, allowing you to poke the entire screwdriver shank into the dirt easily.
When is the Best Time to Water Your Lawn?
The best time to water your lawn is early in the morning, typically between 4 a.m. and 10 a.m. Watering early in the day gives the water time to absorb before temperatures increase and evaporate the droplets. At the same time, the promise of warmer midday weather reduces the risk of droplets clinging to the blades and oversaturating your grass, which can lead to lawn disease.
If you’re tempted to postpone a watering session until later in the afternoon, think again.
Not only does watering in the morning ensure your grass gets the hydration it needs, but it can also reduce runoff and water waste by up to 50%.
Luckily, you can save yourself an early morning venture into the yard by hiring an expert lawn care team like Lawn Pride to install a programmable sprinkler system or smart irrigation system. Simply input your watering schedule and let your sprinklers do the work.
Lawn Watering Tips For Different Types of Grass and Soil
Our top tips on lawn watering are based on your grass type and soil composition allows you to dial in your lawn watering schedule.
Cool-Season Grass
Cool-season grasses — such as Kentucky bluegrass, ryegrass, wild rye, and fescue grass — often require more water than their warm-season cousins. That’s because cool-season grass typically has a shallower root system, which makes it more difficult for the roots to absorb water from the ground during dry periods.
Try watering one to two inches a week. If your grass looks dry or discolored, you may need to increase the weekly amount.
Warm-Season Grass
Heat-loving warm-season grass — like centipede grass, Bermuda grass, and St. Augustine grass — thrives in hotter, dryer climates. As a result, these grasses need less water than cool-season types. Aim for about an inch of water a week, but prepare to increase to two inches as needed during periods of extreme heat or dryness.
Sandy Soil
Water passes through sandy soil quickly, making it hard for your turf to absorb much-needed hydration. Rather than watering in one or two deep bursts, consider breaking your watering schedule into thirds to give your grass a chance to absorb the water.
Clay Soil
Dense, heavy clay soil holds water well. Water your grass for a maximum of one hour per week if your dirt has a hefty amount of clay, and keep an eye out for pooling or runoff. If you notice puddles in your yard after a typical sprinkler session, you may need to cut back on water.
Loamy Soil
Loamy soils strike a healthy balance between sandy dirt and clay. Water two to three times a week for a total of 60 minutes, keeping a careful eye out for signs of under or overwatering.
Lawn Watering Systems: Which One is Right For You?
Every lawn has specific needs when it comes to watering. Fortunately, you can reduce the amount of manual labor required by selecting a lawn watering system:
- Above-ground sprinklers: These are common fixtures in suburban yards. Simple and easy to use, you can connect them to your water hose and move them around your property as needed. They’re inexpensive and flexible but can lead to water waste if not properly placed. You also have to remember to move the sprinklers and turn them on manually when you’re ready to water.
- In-ground systems: In-ground systems feature piping and nozzles placed strategically around your yard. They offer out-of-sight, out-of-mind convenience, are often programmable, and may even allow you to manage your lawn watering schedule from a mobile app. However, they can be more expensive to install and may need ongoing maintenance.
- Drip systems: Drip systems typically work best for smaller gardens and flower beds, where they deliver precise amounts of water and help reduce waste. They need to be carefully installed to ensure water flows smoothly and will require regular maintenance to prevent clogs.
- Soaker hoses: Similar to a drip system, a soaker hose is made up of perforated lengths of hose placed throughout your lawn. They can typically cover more area than a drip system but can lead to uneven watering and may result in more weed growth.
Why Choose Lawn Pride for Your Lawn Watering and Care Needs
At Lawn Pride, we know how much you love your yard. That’s why we’re so committed to providing top-tier lawn care services and personalized lawn care plans that exceed your expectations every time. We even back our work with the Neighborly Done Right Promise™ to ensure your satisfaction.
If you’re ready to experience a hassle-free, vibrant, healthy lawn, trust our team of landscaping professionals. Contact us today to request a free estimate.
This article is intended for general guidance only and may not apply to every situation. You are responsible for determining the proper course of action for your property and your situation. Lawn Pride is not responsible for any damages that occur as a result of any advice or guidance derived from blog content. For the most accurate guidance, contact an independently owned and operated Lawn Pride for more information and a professional on-site assessment.