WATERING SCHEDULE: A Guide to Keeping Your Lawn Healthy in Hot Weather
As a gardening and landscaping expert, I understand the importance of maintaining a healthy lawn, especially during hot weather conditions. One common question that arises during these times is whether it is necessary to water the lawn every day when the temperature reaches 90 degrees. Let me provide you with some insights to help you make an informed decision.
Firstly, it is crucial to note that watering your lawn every day in 90-degree weather may not be the most effective approach. While it is important to keep your lawn hydrated, daily watering can actually be detrimental to its health. This is because frequent shallow watering can encourage shallow root growth, which in turn makes the grass more susceptible to heat stress.
Instead, I recommend implementing a deep watering schedule. This involves allowing the soil to dry out slightly between watering sessions, which encourages the roots to grow deeper in search of moisture. Deeper roots are more resilient and better equipped to withstand heat stress. So, rather than watering daily, aim for a deep watering at least once per week.
Of course, there are exceptions to this general guideline. If the temperature exceeds 100 degrees or more for several days in a row, your lawn may require additional watering. In such extreme conditions, it is advisable to water your lawn twice a week to ensure that it receives adequate moisture. However, it’s important to monitor the soil’s moisture level and adjust the frequency accordingly.
To determine if your lawn requires watering, you can perform a simple test. Take a screwdriver or a similar tool and push it into the soil. If it goes in easily and the soil feels moist at least 4-6 inches below the surface, then your lawn likely has enough moisture. However, if the soil feels dry or the tool encounters resistance, it’s an indication that watering is necessary.
When it comes to watering, the time of day also plays a significant role. It is generally recommended to water your lawn early in the morning, between 6 am and 10 am. This allows the grass to dry before evening, reducing the risk of fungal diseases. Watering during the hottest part of the day is less effective as a significant amount of water can be lost to evaporation.
In terms of the amount of water to apply during each watering session, it is recommended to provide approximately 1 inch of water to your lawn. This can be measured using a rain gauge or by placing a small container, such as a tuna can, in the watering area. Once the container has collected 1 inch of water, you can consider the watering session complete.
In addition to proper watering techniques, there are other measures you can take to help your lawn thrive in hot weather. Regularly mowing your lawn to an appropriate height, typically around 3 inches, can provide shade to the soil, reducing moisture loss. Applying a layer of mulch around trees, shrubs, and flower beds can also help retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.
Watering your lawn every day in 90-degree weather is not recommended. Instead, opt for a deep watering schedule, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between watering sessions. Monitor the soil’s moisture level and adjust the frequency accordingly, especially during extreme heat conditions. By following these guidelines and implementing other measures to protect your lawn, you can ensure its health and resilience during hot weather conditions.
