As August rolls in, the warm days and cool nights of Alberta’s late summer can pose unique challenges for maintaining a lush, green lawn. Proper watering techniques are crucial to keep your grass healthy and vibrant. Here are some essential lawn watering tips to help you navigate late summer lawn care.
Top Lawn Watering Tips for Late Summer
1. Water Early in the Morning
- Watering your lawn early in the morning, between 6 and 10 AM, minimizes evaporation and ensures that your grass can absorb the necessary moisture before the heat of the day.
2. Deep, Infrequent Watering
- Aim for deep, infrequent watering rather than shallow, frequent watering. This encourages deeper root growth, making your lawn more drought-resistant. Typically, your lawn needs about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week. For more tips on watering your lawn and signs that you may be over or under watering, then check out our blog, “Lawn Watering Guidelines: Tips & Signs of Over & Under Watering“.
3. Adjust Sprinkler Systems
- Check and adjust your sprinkler systems to ensure even coverage. Avoid overwatering certain areas and underwatering others. Inspect for clogged or misaligned sprinkler heads regularly.
4. Monitor Soil Moisture
- Use a soil moisture meter to check the moisture levels in your lawn. Water only when the soil is dry to a depth of about 6 inches. This prevents both overwatering and underwatering.
5. Mow at the Right Height
- Set your mower blades to a higher setting, leaving your grass about 3 inches tall. Taller grass shades the soil, reducing evaporation and helping the lawn retain moisture.
6. Avoid Watering in the Evening
- Watering in the evening can leave your lawn damp overnight, creating an ideal environment for fungal growth and lawn diseases. Stick to morning watering for the best results.
7. Mulch Your Grass Clippings
- Leave grass clippings on your lawn after mowing. Mulching helps retain moisture and provides additional nutrients to the soil as the clippings decompose. Learn more about mulching in our blog, “Mulching Grass: Benefits & Tips“.
8. Watch for Signs of Stress
- Keep an eye out for signs of lawn stress, such as wilting or a bluish-gray color. These are indicators that your lawn needs water.
Conclusion
By following these essential watering tips, you can maintain a healthy, green lawn through Alberta’s late summer heat. Proper watering practices not only enhance the beauty of your lawn but also contribute to its long-term health and resilience.
If you have any questions or concerns about your lawn, please feel free to contact our team of lawn care professionals in Calgary or Red Deer and they’d be happy to help answer any questions that you may have.
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