Pour Your Lawn a Drink
Watering the lawn is both an art and a science. The science comes from the integral role water plays in benefiting plant growth and development. The art encompasses volume, timing and frequency, all of which can change based on environmental conditions. The following watering guidelines will help create a great-looking yard now and throughout the season.
Just an inch will do - How much water does a lawn need to stay healthy and green? The general rule of thumb is that most grass requires 1 inch of water per week. Research has shown that proper mowing and fertilizing practices encourage a deeply rooted, healthy lawn that efficiently uses its water supply. However, a lawn may need more water if it is under stress from foot traffic, insects or other environmental factors.
Conditions that require higher water use are the same as those found in desert climates – abundant sunshine, low humidity, high temperatures and wind. The combination of these factors can remove as much as one-third of an inch of water per day from the plant and soil system. Conversely, the absence of these conditions makes watering requirements relatively low.
Before starting a watering schedule, it can be very helpful to determine how much water a sprinkler or irrigation system is putting down and where the water is going. Secure a few shallow tin cans (tuna cans are perfect) in a 10 to 20-foot grid in the yard, measure the depth of the water in each and make any needed adjustments. If puddles begin to form in the yard and earthworms rise to the surface, the lawn is getting too much water. Either water less or in shorter time periods, i.e., replace a 30-minute watering session with two 15-minute sessions spaced three to four hours apart.
Knowing when to water - If most lawns require an inch of water each week, how does one know when to water? While current weather conditions offer the best indication, most lawns exhibit physical signs when they're thirsty. For example, grass can turn a bluish color in direct sunlight. (These spots are easily seen with polarized sunglasses.) Also, footprints that stay in the lawn after walking on it indicate the grass needs a drink. Water aids dramatically in the recovery of grass that is under stress from foot traffic or pests.
Early morning, between 4 a.m. and 9 a.m., is the best time of the day to water. Winds are minimal, the sun is not intense and the water is less likely to evaporate. Watering early in the day also reduces the amount of time that standing water (a catalyst for turfgrass diseases) is on the grass.
The heat is on - While spring showers naturally take care of lawns, hot summer days present the biggest challenge. The 1-inch-per-week rule is best accomplished in a few 30-minute watering sessions. Occasional rain may take care of watering needs for a few days, but if it is windy, hot and dry for a long period, you may need to add one or two more sessions to the weekly schedule.
Grass has the ability to go dormant during droughts and will recover nicely when water returns to its system. So, it's acceptable to not water during hot, dry weather – even if the grass begins turning brown. However, after deciding to let the grass go dormant, stick with the decision. Suddenly replenishing the water supply without committing to a schedule will stress the plant and make it more susceptible to damage.
The ultimate convenience - Automatic irrigation systems are very handy for keeping a consistent watering schedule. Just remember that watering too frequently promotes shallow rooting of the grass, which weakens the turf and makes it more susceptible to damage. One of the best devices for regulating water distribution is a rain or moisture sensor that shuts down the system upon detecting moisture. The sensor also prevents the embarrassing scenario and waster of resources that occurs when sprinklers run during a rainstorm.
Does an automatic sprinkler guarantee a great yard? No, but it helps. While watering is accomplished with anything from a sprinkling can to a hose, the key is the amount of water that is applied. Automatic systems that are forgotten can waste water and money, and provide a less than ideal environment for the yard. (Remember that it is OK to use the on/off switch.)
When combined with proper mowing, prudent fertilizing and heads-up weed and pest control practices, watering will help ensure that your yard looks great all summer long. Watering is a little bit of art, a little bit of science and well worth the effort.
Yard Doctor is sponsored by Briggs & Stratton
© Copyright 2002 Briggs & Stratton Corporation.
