Watering

The most common error committed by people is light irrigation.

Too little water too often encourages a multitude of problems such as shallow root system. The need for watering depends mainly on your soil and, of course, the weather.

Rainfall is no guarantee.

Light showers merely wet the surface. Short down pours do the same. Most of the water is lost in runoff before it can soak in.

How much water is needed?

A lawn will use as much as two inches per week in hot, dry weather – a fraction of that when it is cooler. If you decide your lawn needs water, you should put on enough to wet the entire root zone.  The type of soil you have will determine how much water you should put on at one time.  Heavy clay soil are harder to penetrate.  You should water almost to the point of runoff.  Wait until that water has soaked in and then water again.  Repeat this until you have applied the desired amount.  In sandy soils you will need to apply water more frequently, due to the inability of the soil to retain moisture. 
 

When is the best time?

If you can, avoid late afternoon or evening irrigation. Grass that stays wet for a long time favors the development of diseases. However, do not avoid watering at these times if this is the only time you can water. The important thing is water. Avoiding late afternoons is secondary to providing the needed water.  

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