Watering your lawn seems straightforward. Turn on the sprinkler, let it run and soon you have a lush, green yard. The thing is, many misconceptions can lead to practices that not only waste water but can also weaken your lawn, making it more susceptible to disease, pests, and drought. Let’s debunk some common lawn watering myths with accurate, science-backed advice to keep your lawn safe and healthy.
Myth 1: More Water is Always Better
Reality: Overwatering can be as harmful as underwatering.
Overwatering is one of the most common mistakes in lawn care. While it may seem that more water would result in a greener, healthier lawn the opposite is often true. Overwatering your lawn can lead to shallow root growth. When grass roots don’t need to search for water deep in the soil, they remain close to the surface, leaving your lawn vulnerable to disease and drought. Instead of frequent, light watering, aim for deep watering sessions that allow the water to penetrate the soil and reach the roots.
Our Experts Say:
“Aim for deep, infrequent watering. This encourages the roots to grow deeper into the soil, leading to a more drought-resistant lawn. A good rule of thumb is to water your lawn for about 30 minutes at a time, a few times a week, depending on the season and type of grass.”
Myth 2: Watering in the Evening is Best
Reality: Evening watering can lead to fungal growth.
Watering your lawn in the evening may seem like a good idea because the water won’t evaporate as quickly. However, when grass remains wet overnight, especially in the cooler evening temperatures, it can create a perfect environment for fungal growth and the grass becomes more susceptible to diseases.
Our Experts Say:
“Water your lawn in the early morning, preferably between 6 a.m. and 10 a.m. This timing allows the grass to absorb water and dry out before the heat of the day, reducing the risk of disease. If morning watering isn’t possible, late afternoon is a better option than evening.”
Myth 3: You Should Water Your Lawn Every Day
Reality: Daily watering promotes shallow root growth.
Many homeowners believe that daily watering keeps their lawn hydrated but this habit can be counterproductive. Just like overwatering, daily watering encourages the grass roots to stay near the surface, making them more vulnerable to heat and drought.
Our Experts Say:
“For a healthier lawn, water deeply but less frequently. Watering two to three times a week encourages the roots to grow deeper into the soil, where they can access moisture even during dry spells. Remember, the goal is to create a strong, deep root system that can sustain your lawn through tough conditions.”
Myth 4: A Brown Lawn Means It’s Dying
Reality: Brown grass is often just dormant, not dead.
Looking out the window at a brown lawn can be alarming but this appearance doesn’t always mean your grass is dead. Grass often goes dormant during hot, dry conditions to conserve water. Dormancy is a natural survival mechanism and your lawn can green up again when conditions improve.
Our Experts Say:
“Dormant grass will typically green up again when conditions improve, such as cooler temperatures or after rainfall. It’s essential to continue watering your lawn, even if it’s brown, to prevent it from drying out completely but resist the urge to overwater. Dormant grass requires less water, and overwatering can lead to root rot and other issues. Water deeply once or twice a week to maintain a consistent moisture level in the soil.”
Myth 5: All Lawns Need the Same Amount of Water
Reality: Different grass types have different water needs.
Not all lawns are created equal. Different grass types require different watering schedules. Cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass may need more frequent watering during the summer, while warm-season grasses such as Bermuda grass are more drought-tolerant and need less water.
Our Experts Say:
“Understand the specific needs of your grass type. A one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work in lawn care. Adjust your watering schedule based on your grass variety, weather conditions and soil type to ensure optimal health.”
Myth 6: Watering in Direct Sunlight Burns the Grass
Reality: Water droplets don’t burn grass, but midday watering is inefficient.
The idea that watering your lawn during the day, when the sun is shining, will cause the water droplets to act like magnifying glasses and burn the grass is a myth. However, watering during the hottest part of the day isn’t efficient because much of the water will evaporate before it reaches the roots.
Our Experts Say:
“The best time to water is early morning. However, if you can only water during the day, it’s better than not watering at all. Just be mindful of potential water loss due to evaporation and aim to water closer to the roots if possible.”
Myth 7: Rain Alone is Enough to Keep a Lawn Healthy
Reality: Relying solely on rain can leave your lawn thirsty.
Rain contributes to your lawn’s hydration but it’s rarely enough to keep your grass healthy, especially during dry spells. Rainfall can be inconsistent, and your lawn may require supplemental watering to stay green and healthy.
Our Experts Say:
“Use a rain gauge to monitor how much rain your lawn is receiving. If your lawn isn’t getting about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week from rain, consider supplementing with additional watering. This is particularly important during extended dry periods.”
Myth 8: It’s Okay to Water Anytime During the Day
Reality: Timing is everything when it comes to watering efficiency.
While it might seem convenient to water your lawn whenever it fits into your schedule, the timing of watering can significantly impact its effectiveness. Watering during the heat of the day leads to significant water loss due to evaporation, while watering in the evening can increase the risk of disease.
Our Experts Say:
“Stick to early morning watering when possible. This maximizes water absorption and makes sure that your lawn dries out during the day, reducing the risk of disease.”
Helping Your Lawn Thrive
Debunking these common lawn watering myths empowers you to give your lawn the best care, ensuring it stays healthy and vibrant year-round.
For more expert advice on lawn care, consider consulting with our team of experts who can help you tailor your watering routine to your lawn’s specific needs. Visit emoyer.com/services/lawn-care/ or call 215.799.2016. Our team is always ready to help you achieve the lawn of your dreams.