Lawn Watering Guide

For New and Established Lawns

When it comes to watering a new or existing lawn there are an abundance of questions that come to mind. How much should I water? What time of day should I water? How do I know if it is enough water? What should I do if I water too much?

If you are contemplating these questions, then you have come to the right place. NG Turf is here to help you determine your lawns watering needs with this simple lawn watering guide.

Check Moisture Levels

To check moisture levels, pull back a corner of the new sod and push a screwdriver or other sharp object into the soil. It should push in easily and come out moist along the first six inches. If not, additional water should be applied.
As the roots of the turf begin to penetrate the soil, it will be difficult to pull back a corner to check underneath the sod. You can still use a sharp object to penetrate the soil by going all the way through the turf into the soil.

Check Entire Lawn

A lawn’s corners and edges are particularly vulnerable to drying out, commonly missed by sprinklers. Areas near buildings also dry out faster. Ensure the entire lawn receives the same amount of water.

What If There Is Runoff?

Water runoff can occur in an area of your lawn where the water is not absorbed by the ground. Water runoff drowns your lawn and wastes water.
If runoff occurs, turn off the water and wait thirty minutes to an hour before resuming to conserve water.
For the first two weeks, keep the soil below new turf moist with daily or more frequent watering as needed.

When Should I Water my lawn?

Water between 4:00 p.m. and 10:00 a.m. when temperatures and wind speeds are lower, preventing water loss due to evaporation.
The ideal time to water is just before sunrise, while the grass is still wet with dew, to deter diseases.

Watering Needs of Established Sod

Once sod is established, infrequent and deep watering is preferred over frequent and shallow watering. Roots will only grow as deep as their most frequent available water supply, and deeper roots create stronger, healthier grass.

DORMANT TURF STILL NEEDS WATER!

Dormant grass is not dead. Dormant turf needs about half an inch of water per week from rain or irrigation. Wind and low humidity levels dry out turf.
Watering during winter dry spells will keep soil moist and increase your chances for a healthy green lawn in the spring.