Keeping the grass in your yard healthy and green is a common goal for many gardening enthusiasts.
However, for optimal results it is essential to water the grass at the right time. Let’s find out together when and how to water to ensure a greener lawn and reduce water waste.
Because timing matters
Watering your lawn at the right time not only ensures a healthy lawn verde and lush, but also helps reduce the water consumption.
Many gardens are watered from early morning until late evening, but choosing the wrong times can compromise the health of your lawn.
The water can quickly evaporate or run off, leading to considerable waste.
The best times to water the grass
According to experts, the ideal time to water your lawn is between 6:00 and 10:00 in the morning.
Watering during these hours allows the lawn to absorb water effectively, avoid it thermal stress during high temperatures and helps prevent lawn diseases.
If it is not possible to water in the morning, a good alternative is late in the evening, between 10pm and 6am. This range reduces evaporation and often aligns with the municipal water restrictions.
When to avoid watering
Avoid watering your lawn in the early afternoon. High temperatures and high sun exposure can stress the grass and limit water absorption.
A high percentage of water will be lost to evaporation or will be lost to the wind, increasing the risk of lawn diseases and plant death.
Factors to consider
Several factors influence how and how often to water your lawn:
- Type of grass: Cool-season grasses require more water than warm-season grasses.
- Type of terrain: Terrain affects the water retention and drainage rates. Sandy, clayey, loamy or siliceous soils require different irrigation approaches.
- Climate: The local climate influences the amount of water needed. The drier the climate, the more often you will have to water.
Strategies for correct irrigation
Watering your lawn properly not only makes your lawn more beautiful, but also helps you save water.
Split up your watering sessions
Avoid watering daily to prevent shallow roots. It is recommended that you provide your lawn with about an inch of water per week, divided into three watering sessions. If there are summer storms, the amount of water can be reduced.
Feed your lawn
Applying fertilizers before summer helps your lawn better withstand drought. Preventive nutrients strengthen the roots of the grass, improving resistance to Drought and heat.
Avoid wasting water
Adjust sprinklers to wet only grass, avoiding sidewalks, driveways and areas with lots of weeds.
Use drip irrigation systems or watering cans to ensure water reaches the grass roots directly.
The dethatch of the lawn, i.e. removing dead grass, leaves and debris, can also help avoid wasting water.
This layer can interfere with the soil’s absorption of water and essential nutrients.
