R. Simons Lawn Care - Watering Tips

Read about watering shrubs and trees.

Applying the proper amount of water at the appropriate time is important to maintaining a healthy lawn. Light, frequent irrigations produce shallow root systems. The shallow root system prevents efficient use of plant nutrients in the soil. Roots generally grow where the soil is moist; they do not seek out water.

uring vigorous growth periods, your turf should receive 1 to 1 1/2 inches of water per week. Keep in mind that moisture evaporation takes place much faster on hot, non-rainy days. Watering from a sprinkler or an in-ground irrigation system is not as effective as natural rainfall, and more water should be applied to accommodate for the evaporation from the heat.

Whether you have an in-ground irrigation system or a regular lawn sprinkler, you should find out how long it takes to apply the required amount of water to an area. Water pressure, the type of irrigation head, and type of sprinkler will determine how long you will need to water in each area. To test your sprinkler output and application uniformity, place several rain gauges or open-top containers of the same size under the sprinkler. Water the area and determine how long it takes to put out the required amount of water. The difference between the containers provides an estimate of the uniformity and rate of application. You may find that the required amount of water is being applied faster than the soil can absorb it, and it will begin to run off. If this happens, either move the sprinkler to a new location for a while, or turn the sprinkler off and resume watering after the moisture has had time to soak into the soil.

The time of day when water is applied influences its effectiveness. Before sunrise is considered the best time to water because there tends to be less wind and lower temperatures. Research indicates up to 50 percent less water is lost by watering at night rather than watering during the middle of the day. Studies also indicate that watering the lawn after the dew has formed on the turf will not increase disease probabilities. However, watering before the dew has formed or after it has dried from the morning sun extends the moisture period and may enhance disease development.