Tips for Lawn Irrigation

Lawn irrigation is one of the most important factors to consider for healthy lawn maintenance. Changing climate conditions from the spring to summer months presents a challenge for lush lawn growth. Understanding irrigation risks and problems can help increase vitality and quality of growth.

Irrigate Depending on Weather Conditions

Weather conditions are the biggest variable associated with proper irrigation. Lawn grass requires a greater supply of water during warm, dry weather conditions. Whereas, grass requires less water during cool and rainy weather conditions than in warm weather. The reason for this is that water evaporates faster during warm conditions, which can cause brown spots or patches if there is not enough available water. Instead of using a daily irrigation system, water according to weather conditions to ensure healthy growth.

Water in the Morning

Lawn grass is susceptible to fungal diseases, of which, most spread due to free moisture on grass blade surfaces. Watering during the morning allows free moisture on blade surfaces to evaporate during the day, which reduces the risk of disease development at night. However, irrigating during the evening does not give enough time for water to evaporate, which increases the likelihood of diseases development.

Check Soil Type

The retention of water in soil depends on the type of soil. Loam soil allows for proper drainage and retention, whereas sandy soil does not hold water well. The amount of water required for proper irrigation depends on the retention of water of your soil type.

Automatic vs. Manual Watering

Automatic irrigation systems take the worry out of watering your lawn by applying water at a given daily time. The convenience factor allows for carefree lawn irrigation; however, it is an expensive solution. Manual watering allows you to control the time and the amount of water applied. This allows adjusting the watering needs of your lawn depending on weather conditions and reducing water waste.

Moist Not Soaked

When watering new seedlings or maintaining an established lawn, it is important to maintain moist soil conditions, but not to soak the soil. Too much water drowns the roots causing browning, while too much water can washout new seedlings. When watering new seedlings, it is important to water consistently throughout the day to keep soil moist, but not too much at any one time to reduce washout. Check soil moisture with your finger or with any tester soil at home and garden stores. If soil particles stick together and had a dark color, no water is required. However, if soil is light in color and does not stick together, it requires water.