Watering Tips
Watering your lawn during a drought can be challenging, but with the right techniques, you can help your grass survive and stay healthy while conserving water. Here are the best practices for watering during a drought:
1. Water Deeply, Not Frequently
Water your lawn less often but for longer periods. This encourages deeper root growth, which helps the grass become more drought-tolerant. Aim for about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week, including rainfall.
Watering deeply encourages roots to grow deeper into the soil, which can help them reach moisture even during dry spells.
2. Water Early in the Morning
Watering early, between 4 a.m. and 10 a.m., is the best time because temperatures are cooler, and there’s less wind. This reduces evaporation and allows the grass to absorb more moisture.
Avoid watering in the evening, as moisture can sit on the grass overnight, promoting mold and fungus growth.
3. Don’t Water the Lawn Every Day
During a drought, it’s important not to water your lawn every day. Frequent shallow watering encourages shallow root systems, making the grass more susceptible to drought. Instead, water deeply and allow the grass to dry out between waterings.
4. Mow Higher and Less Often
When you mow your lawn during a drought, keep your mower blade set higher. Taller grass provides shade for the soil, helping to conserve moisture and protect the roots from the sun’s heat. This also helps the grass retain water for longer periods.
5. Limit Lawn Traffic
Try to limit foot traffic on the lawn during a drought. This helps avoid compacting the soil, which can hinder water absorption and further stress the grass.
6. Consider Grass Type
Sod is highly effected by droughts and can begin to die off in a mater of weeks if not properly watered.
Some grass varieties are more drought-resistant than others. If your lawn is consistently struggling during dry periods, consider reseeding with a drought-tolerant variety of grass like fescue grass. These grasses can survive with less water and heat.
7. Monitor Rainfall
Keep track of how much rain you’re receiving and adjust your watering schedule accordingly. If there’s been significant rainfall, you may not need to water for a while.