Watering the lawn

Established turf generally withstands dry periods, but growth is retarded. Under drought stress, turfgrasses dry up and the leaves roll and turn a dull purplish colour, a process called dry wilt. However, too much water may induce wet wilt, which occurs when the soils become saturated, and the movement of oxygen into the soil and carbon dioxide out of the soil ceases.

Water any turf just before it begins to wilt. This stage can be recognised because the grasses develop a dull purple cast, and the leaf blades begin to roll or fold. Further, the grass does not spring back after the lawn has been walked on.

Preferably, water early in the morning when conditions are calm and temperatures are low, so less water is lost to evaporation. Watering in late evening has the additional benefit of reducing water loss to evaporation, but because the grass usually stays wet all night, watering at this time can induce disease.

Category: Lawn Care