Frequently Asked Questions

Proper Watering

How You Water Your Lawn Can Make A Difference

During periods of drought conditions it is important that you water your lawn. If drought conditions extend too long, the grasses will react defensively to this and move into a dormancy state. They "harden off" in order to prevent complete loss of vital cell moisture. Once this dormancy state occurs, it takes 2-3 weeks of sustained moisture before the plants revive themselves.

Sometimes certain localized areas in the lawn become baked and dryed out to the extent that they become "hydrophobic". In this state water is not absorbed and simply runs off. When this occurs it can be remedied by aerating these areas, or also apply a soapy detergent which will help break down the hydrophobic condition and allow water to be absorbed.

How Important Is It?

Adding water to the lawn should be given high priority in your lawn management program. With the proper use of water, maximum benefit can be derived from each gallon, and the quality and appearance of the turf can be improved. During dry weather money spent for water on a well-managed lawn will eliminate or reduce costly lawn renovation later in the fall.

Water comprises about 80 to 90 percent of the structure of a grass plant and is therefore a very important element for proper growth and continued good appearance. It is essential that adequate moisture be maintained in the soil to replace that lost to drainage, evaporation and plant consumption.

When Should I Water?

Checking the soil and the turf itself is the only way.to determine when water is needed and to follow a proper watering program. Evidence of a blue-gray color and/or "foot-printing" on the turf is an indication that wilt is imminent. Another guide is the use of a soil probe to check the soil moisture content and distribution in the upper six inches of the soil. Watering on a regular basis will protect your grass from many harmful conditions. Healthy grass is more resistant to natural problems.

How Much Should I Water?

To check the discharge of your sprinkler, place three or more straight-sided cans in a line at intervals out from the sprinkler. Place the can nearest the sprinkler no closer than eight to ten feet. When the average depth of water in the three cans is one to 1 1/2 inches, sufficient water has been applied.

The rate of application should not exceed the rate that the soil can absorb it, or water may rest on the surface. This surface water could lead to compaction of the soil, scald and submersion injury, and general deterioration of the turf. Persistently wet soils give rise to weeds such as nutsedge, poa trivialis and others.

What is the Right Time of Day?

Many lawnkeepers disagree over what time of day to water. So you'll find there is much to be said either for or against any particular time. However, don't believe the popular fallacy that grass is harmed if watered during the middle of the day when the sun is hottest. Early morning or late afternoon watering may be preferable to late evening. Watering at night allows water droplets to remain on the leaves for an extended period, resulting in greater disease problems.