For a beautiful, lush lawn and garden, you need to ensure your plants are getting enough water to meet their needs for growth. Some plants can thrive with moderate levels of water collected from rainfall, while others – especially those that are newly planted – require a stricter watering routine. Below are a few tips to help you maintain your lawn and garden this summer.
How Often to Water Your Lawn
Generally, you want your lawn to receive about one to two inches of water per week. While different types of soil can call for different practices for optimal coverage and absorption, often a cycle of 15 to 30 minutes, two to three times per week will maintain a healthy lawn. However, if you have just put down fresh seed or sod, or you are looking to revive the lawn after a prolonged dry spell, daily watering will be necessary. When growing new grass, you will want to water the grass daily, at least twice a day, for a period of at least 30 minutes each cycle. Once the seed has taken to the soil, deeper watering, less often will promote stronger root growth than would shallow watering, more frequently.
When to Water Your Lawn
Watering your lawn in the morning will offer the most effective conditions for optimal water absorption. Watering in the morning is generally the most effective, between 4 a.m. and 10 a.m., as it primes the grass for the sunshine it will be exposed to over the day ahead. The warmer afternoon temperatures cause water to evaporate too quickly after watering, and evening watering can cause water to pool and cling to the grass blades overnight, promoting fungus and lawn diseases over prolonged periods.
How Often to Water Gardens: Flowers and Crops
Generally, morning or afternoon is best for watering your flowers and crops. Larger plants, and newly planted varieties require more water. Most flowers and container plants need to be watered at least daily, if not two to three times per day, dependent on their exposure to direct sunlight and the type of plant. Vegetables often require daily watering, so be sure to look into the particular care instructions for each variety you are growing.
Ensure Regular Maintenance for a Healthy Lawn
Make sure to mow the lawn regularly; letting the grass grow too long can prevent water and sunlight from adequately accessing the grass, causing it to yellow. Also, be sure to weed your lawn regularly to prevent them from spreading, and fill any large weeded areas with grass seed to prevent more from popping up.
Want advice on how to grow a thicker, healthier lawn? Contact Hansen Lawn & Garden today!