Tips For Spring Watering

It goes without saying that water is one of, if not THE most, important requirements the lawn depends on to maintain healthy growth. Without adequate water, the lawn will become drought stressed and die, and all your hard work will be for not. Many factors need to be taken into consideration when determining the lawns water requirements during this time of year. 

As a general rule, most turfgrass species require about 1 inch of water each week to maintain healthy growth. Cool, favourable temperatures and natural precipitation are generally common during the spring in most areas of Canada,  so this can reduce the lawns requirement for extra water when conditions like this persist. If and when the lawn requires water during spring, we want to be prepared for it! Many homes have in-ground irrigation systems that are programmed to automatically water the lawn, which is a great step. These systems should be powered on and ready for use, even in the spring. A good defense leads to a great offense!

You may find this interesting: Nutri-Lawn Watering Tips

General Lawn Watering Tips

There are several important guidelines to remember when watering a lawn. Although it may appear as easy as turning the water on and walking away, effective watering is a bit of an art. Keep in mind some basic recommendations that can be helpful and ensure effective watering is taking place.

Apply 1 Inch - only water when the grass needs it. Most grass species require about 1 inch of water each week to sustain healthy growth. Water 1 or 2 times each week depending on soil conditions.

Deep and Infrequent - Watering deep and infrequent encourages grass roots to grow deeper into the soil. Deeper roots allow plants to better survive stressful periods as the top surface of soil begins to dry out. Light frequent watering promotes shallow rooting and leaves the plants susceptible to drought conditions.

Water Early Morning - Watering before the sun comes up is the most ideal time. Watering at night leaves the grass plant moist for an extended period of time and susceptible to harmful diseases. Avoid watering during the day as this increases the risk of excessive evaporation.

Increase Frequency - Adjust the watering schedule throughout the season, especially when the lawn is most actively growing. If weather conditions become extreme and drought pressures exist more frequent applications will be required.

Water Evenly - Sprinklers can do a very effective job supplementing the lawn with water in between natural rainfalls. placing and pointing sprinklers in the wrong area and direction can be very ineffective if the lawn is not watered evenly. Randomly placing rain gauges or empty tuna cans across the lawn can help you measure and ensure each area receives equal water.

Avoid Overwatering - only replace the amount of water that was lost by the plant. overwatering does more than just run up water bills and deplete water supply. Grass plants become weak and more susceptible to insect and disease pressures.