When and how much to water is largely determined by weather and soil conditions. Setting a timer for too frequent waterings is detrimental for lawn growth and health. During adverse weather conditions applying enough water to ensure turf survival is all that is necessary. Maintaining a dark, green lawn at all times during the growing season takes a lot of water.
It is recommended that you apply enough water to soak the soil to a depth of 6 to 8 inches at a rate that allows all water to be absorbed by the soil with no run-off. Wait until the grass shows signs of wilting, but do not wait until severe wilting and browning of the foliage occurs.
It takes about an inch of water to soak a soil properly, but some soils require more and some less. Poke a long screwdriver or rod into the soil to reveal the depth of water penetration. Moist soil is easily penetrated. The probe will stop when it reaches dry soil.
The watering interval varies from once every two or three weeks during cool spring and fall weather to twice a week during severe drought. Watering too much is not only wasteful, but it can be harmful to the turf. Watering a lawn every day causes shallow rooting. Consequently, the turf will not survive for more than a few days if water restrictions are imposed. Frequent watering and shallow rooting hastens thatch buildup, increasing the chance of disease.
Applying one inch of water to 1,000 square feet requires 623 gallons of water. Multiplying this amount by each thousand square feet of lawn area and the number of times the lawn is watered during the season adds up to a tremendous amount of water. The results demonstrate why you should water no more often than necessary.
