How much to water your lawn
How much to water your lawn is a common question we hear and especially as we get some unseasonably warm weather people often underestimate how much water their lawn needs.
New turf is especially easy to dry out and it’s important as the weather warms up to make sure you get water on fast.
Common mistakes
#1 Watering a little bit, but often
If you water often but only a small amount the water stays in the top layer of the soil, this means your lawns root structure also stays in the top layer of soil.
A longer deeper watering sends water deeper into the soil and the root structure of your turf follows it making a stronger lawn. To get a deeper watering we recommend getting a good quality sprinkler or soaker hose as these will give a more even coverage of water.
#2 Not watering new turf often enough
New turf needs a helping hand to get established, not knowing how much to water your new lawn in the first couple weeks is a very common mistake we see.
Depending on your local conditions we recommend the following:
- Weeks 1 & 2: 1-2 times daily
- Weeks 3 & 4: Once every second day
- Weeks 5 & 6: Twice a week
- Week 7 on: One deep water per week
#3 Not watering fast enough as you lay turf
As the weather warms up its vital for your new lawn to get water as soon as possible. In warm weather this means starting to water your lawn before you finish laying the entire area.
This works best if you have someone who can jump on a hose once you have a section down and they can water while you continue laying the rest of the lawn. You should start watering 15 minutes after you lay the first slab.
How much to water your lawn
Unfortunately your lawn can’t tell you if it’s still thirsty, but we have a great little ‘life hack’ to help you measure how much water has gone into your lawn.
Mark 20-30mm on the side of a plastic container and put it on the lawn under your sprinkler. When the water level reaches the mark that area has had enough water and it’s time to move the sprinkler.
And in the warm weather remember, if you are thirsty so is your lawn!
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Many thanks for your helpful article. However, I consider that I should make another watering schedule for my lawn when the summer comes.