One of the most important things that contributes to your lawn’s overall health is proper mowing. Whether you are mowing the lawn yourself, by Rowlandscapes or by another provider, make sure that these practices are followed:
The lawn should be mowed at a height of 3.5 inches to 4 inches. This will decrease the number of weeds that will germinate.
Never mow the lawn shorter than 3 inches.
Mow when it needs mowed, which is when the grass is 5.5 inches to 6 inches tall.
Only cut off 1/3 of the grass blade.
Mow carefully so that the turf is not damaged, especially when turning the mower.
Mow in a different direction each time. This will help decrease the creation of ruts and compaction.
Recycle the clippings when you mow. The clippings are filled with nutrients and water. Unless the grass is tall, the clippings should always be left on the lawn.
Trimming gives the lawn a finished and professional look. Trimming needs to be done properly to a height that is the same as the mowed lawn. Trimming turf shorter along the edges (fences, sidewalk, trees, driveway, etc.) will lead to the turf getting stressed and dying in these areas. The shorter, stressed grass will also promote weed germination. Weeds love to grow along the edges of lawns. Airborne weed seeds tend to collect along the edges and the edges tend to be hotter, which some broadleaf weeds desire.
As each lawn area is unique, there is no easy answer for determining a watering schedule. Keep in mind that shaded turf generally requires less water than do lawns in full sun. The best schedules are determined by observing the appearance of your lawn.
This is a basic guide for setting up the intervals between watering. Keep in mind that this interval will change with the seasons. The shorter intervals come in the summer heat. Also be mindful of weather changes; spring and summer rains, hot temperatures, dry winds, or unusually long dry spells. Be ready to respond with changes in your watering program. With proper watering, you’ll have a healthier, more beautiful lawn, and be conserving water at the same time.
Why Do You Need to Water Your Lawn?
The deeper the roots- the less often you will need to water- and a healthier lawn withstands drought. Deep watering encourages deep roots as they grow deeper into the soil to search for water. Deep roots enjoy the lower soil temperatures during the heat of the summer and less fluctuations in moisture levels and temperature.
How do I know when I need to water?
There are several easy methods to help determine your lawns need for water. Push a soil probe or old screwdriver into the soil in areas that look dry and into areas that look lush and healthy. With soil that has ample moisture, it is generally very easy to push a probe or screwdriver into the soil, whereas soil that is dry is typically very difficult to push into the ground. Turf that is moisture deficient will also not spring back up after walking on it.
Remember deep watering’s are typically best for most lawns throughout the year. Observing your lawn is the key to adequate watering. Each day check your lawn for signs of water stress. Areas of blue-gray color and thin, curled leaves are the most common early signs of water stress. When these indicators first appear, you will know that your lawn should be watered immediately.
When is the Best Time to Water Your Lawn?
The best time to water your lawn is in the early morning. Watering in the morning is best because this allows the water to soak deep into the soil and allows the grass plant to dry before the water evaporates as it gets warmer in the day. If you cannot water in the morning, evenings are OK, just try to do it earlier! (better to water any time, than to not water at all).
How Many Times a Week Should You Water Your Lawn?
You need to water at least once a week for at least an hour. This generally provides 1 inch of water to the roots. If the lawn has just been seeded or we are experiencing a heat wave, then different guidelines apply. (see below)
How Much Water Do You Use When You Water Your Lawn?
All lawn areas require 1 inch of water per week. This is best done once or twice per week. If we are experiencing a heat wave (temps above 88 degrees for more than 2 days in a row), then water a third time. The trick here is to water deeply so that the roots grow down deeper into the soil to chase the water, thereby leaving more soil above them to protect them during periods of dryness and excessive heat.
Deep, infrequent watering is typically best for most lawns. On average, a lawn needs about 1 inch of water a week during the growing season, either from rain or irrigation. This 1 inch of water normally soaks the soil to a depth of 4-6 inches, which allows the water to reach deep into the root system.
You must determine the rate of application of your sprinkler system to set up any irrigation program. An easy way to determine the rate of your sprinkler system is to set out a series of equal sized containers (cat food can, small flat-bottomed bowls, etc.) Run the system for 30 minutes and then measure the amount of water in the can and adjust your watering time to reach the desired level. With this test, you can determine the length of time it takes to apply 1 inch of water.
Do You Need to Worry About Water Runoff?
Watch for runoff during the watering period. It is very possible that your lawn will not be able to soak up the water as fast as your sprinkler is putting it on the lawn. If this occurs shut off the sprinkler for an hour and then turn it on again. If you have an automatic system, have it cycle through the stations again.
Also, remember that sloped areas will have more tendencies for runoff. The best times to water your lawn is in the early morning or early evening when there is generally less wind and heat. The least desirable time is in the heat of the afternoon, when water evaporates too quickly and very late in the evening, which can cause the lawn to stay wet all night. This may encourage disease development.
Use a timer
Hose spigot timers are available at major retail hardware stores and allow you to water your lawn while not at home. Simply attach to your tap before you attach your hose. When you leave in the morning, set your sprinkler out at the desired location, turn the timer on to 60-120 minutes and leave for the day. The lawn will get the water it needs, and you will not have to remember to shut it off.
How should I water a newly seeded lawn?
It is extremely important that a newly seeded lawn be kept moist but NOT SATURATED, until the seeds begin to grow. After the seeds have germinated, approximately 3 weeks after seeding with proper daily watering, reduce the frequency of watering to every 2 – 3 days. Applying too much water will only inhibit germination and promote disease. As you reduce the watering frequency you should also increase the amount of water applied each time.