Monday, April 18, 2011

Watering Your Lawn Tips and Advice

Most lawns need about 1” to 1 1/2" of water per week. Regular, fairly deep watering in the Durham Region is better than daily light sprinklings. Deep watering and allowing the lawn to dry out between watering will force the roots to penetrate deeper in search of moisture. In Markham, early morning is the best time to water your lawn] so that the leaves can dry slowly and naturally without too much evaporation. Evening watering can promote the spreading of lawn grass diseases especially in Stouffville neighborhoods. But if it is the only time of day you are allowed to water, then water in the evening, as it is better to water in the evening than no water at all.

An easy way to tell if your lawn needs water is:

   * Areas of the lawn especially near sidewalks and driveways, under large
trees and on slopes, take on a blue‑green haze. If extremely dry the lawn may
appear yellowish.

   * Footprints don't spring back shortly after they are made.

When watering your lawn be mindful of areas that need more or less water. In the Greater Toronto Area, slopes that are south-facing need more water than other areas as well as high spots in your lawn. In shady areas that do not get more than 4 hours of direct sunlight a day less watering is needed. However, grass
under large tress need more water. This is because tree roots consume the water and the tree canopy covers the grass like an umbrella.

Keeping these tips in mind will allow your lawn to be healthy and beautiful from Spring to Fall.