Amount:
Lawn grasses have a minimurn water requirement each week throughout the growing season. Any quantity less then this amount limits the turfgrass vigor and ultimately results in dormancy. During hot weather, your lawn's water requirements increase considerably. At this time, water needs to be supplemented by using lawn sprinklers.
For best results, 1 1/2" of water should be applied each time you water your lawn. This amount of water will moisten most soils to a depth of 5-7 inches. The best way to determine the amount of water the lawn has received is to place a container (a coffee can is ideal) in an area where your sprinkler or irrigation system is operating. Then, clock the time required to collect 1-1/2" of water to determine the length of watering cycle. Another method of measurement is to probe the soil with a long screwdriver to determine if the soil is moist to a depth of 5-7 inches. Rainfall during the week will help meet your lawn's needs and reduce the watering time required.
If you have heavy clay or compacted soil, water may tend to puddle in your lawn after a relatively short time of watering. It this occurs, water for 20-30 minutes, turn the sprinklers off for 20-30 minutes and then water the same area again for 20-30 minutes. Repeat this cycle until the soil is moistened to the 5-7" depth. A sloped lawn area should be watered in a similar manner to avoid water run off and soil erosion.

Frequency:
Your lawn should be watered 1-3 times a week, depending on the weather and soil conditions. Typically, lighter, more frequent watering is undesirable because it may result in shallow turfgrass roots, weed germination and disease susceptibility.
However, there are circumstances when lighter, more frequent watering is acceptable. This type of watering is more effective for sandy soils, since water tends to move quickly and is eventually lost for plant availability. Light, frequent watering is also appropriate when the lawn is injured from insects and certain diseases, when moisture is needed to help the plant survive.

Timing:
Watering is most efficient during the early morning hours. Watering should occur during daylight hours, as late evening and night watering can increase susceptibility to lawn diseases. However, if you cannot water during the day, evening watering is better than not watering at all.

Pro-Care Practices to Enhance Water Usage:
Proper, balanced fertilization of lawns: A well-nourished lawn requires less frequent watering.

Aeration: An annual program of aeration avoids compaction and rapid runoff, increases water infiltration and promotes rooting.

Cultural Practices to Enhance Water Usage:
For most effective water usage, avoid watering lawns on windy days.
Water early in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Avoid sprinklers that produce a fine mist; watering is lost to wind and evaporation.
Check irrigation systems frequently to inspect for leaks, sprinkler patterns and timer settings.
Adjust mower height to 3" during drought stress periods.

The Pro Care staff is always ready to assist you with your lawn. Please call if we may provide any information to enhance your lawn's health or appearance.