Lawns often become patchy and brown during the summer, not only because of the heat but also because many gardenersare unintentionally watering them wrong. Most people prefer to do gardening work in the afternoon when the day is warmer and they feel more energised to do any jobs that need to be done.
However, this is the worst time to water the lawn, as the higher temperatures when the sun is at its peak cause most of the moisture to evaporate before it can soak into the soil. As a result, the water will fail to reach the grass roots, even with frequent watering, which causes the grass to stop growing and makes it much harder for the lawn to recover and turn green again.
However, the gardening experts at Patuxent Nursery have shared it is very easy to keep lawns healthy in summer, as long as you water them in the morning.
The expert said: “Watering is most beneficial when done early in the morning. To reduce water evaporation, it’s best to water between 6 and 10am.”
Why water lawns in the morning?
It is best to avoid watering lawns anytime after 12pm, since the afternoon sun is at its peak and much of the water will evaporate before reaching the grass roots.
Watering the grass in the evening should also be avoided, as no sun at all means the moisture will keep the lawn damp which can encourage slugs and fungal diseases.
Morning is the best time to water lawns because the temperature is cooler, allowing moisture to reach the roots, while also giving the grass time to dry in the sun.
How to water lawns properly in summer
It is best to water the lawn deeply roughly around two to three times a week in summer during hot weather. Try to water the grass before 10am if you can but do not water after 12pm.
How often the lawn needs to be watered really depends on the soil type, so it helps to know what kind of soil you have. Sandy soils require more frequent watering, while clay soils can be watered less often.
When you are watering the lawn pay close attention to where the water is going. If you notice any water running off onto the driveway then move you hose or sprinkler.
Be careful not to leave a hose or sprinkler system laying about the garden with water still in it as the sun can heat it up during the day and really hurt the grass. Make sure to run a hose or sprinkler a few seconds before watering the lawn to flush out any hot water.
However, if you take the time to water lawns at the right time, your grass will stay hydrated even during hot weather, helping it remain green and thick throughout the summer.