From the experts at AllGreen
Established Lawns
In general, watering for a longer period of time infrequently and without puddling is better than watering often for a short period. This helps the water to seep down deep into the soil, allowing the roots to reach for the water and establish a stronger and more substantial root system. If water stays at the surface only, the roots develop too shallow and will burn out at the first sign of drought or lack of water. Your lawn needs about one inch of water per week or the depth of an empty tuna-fish-can (or other straight sided container) placed under your sprinkler system. IE. Watering every other day or every 3rd day for a longer time period is better for your lawn vs. every day for a shorter time period.
Establishing New Seed
The opposite of the above is true. Keep watered as much as possible while still allowing the soil to drain and dry once a day. The best time to water is early morning and then again around noon or 1pm. This will keep the new seed moist without being too moist at night when fungus likes to develop. After the new grass is mowed twice, the established lawn watering schedule is recommended.
Watering Bans or Limited Watering
We recommend watering as allowed for a longer period of time. For example, if you can only water 2 days a week, water as much as the lawn will hold without puddling. If proper watering and maintenance is done prior to the ban, the grass will have a deep root system and sustain.
Hard Packed Soil or Heavy Thatch
If the lawn puddles in certain spots it may be a sign that core aeration is needed to break up the soil and thatch. The potential of clay in the subsoil will keep the lawn from draining as well and can be treated with gypsum. Please contact us for a determination and plan to remedy.
We look forward to helping you this season and appreciate the opportunity to provide these instructions for you. If you have any questions, please contact us at 781-762-7080, or info@allgreenworld.com