Many homeowners irrigate their lawns incorrectly. Overwatering is the most common mistake; it can damage or even kill the lawn. Overwatering leads to a shallow root system; increases a lawn’s vulnerability to weeds, insects, and diseases; reduces drought tolerance; increases thatch; encourages excessive growth; and reduces tolerance for environmental stress.  Letting your lawn “tell you when to water” means turning your irrigation system to “off” and operating it only when your lawn shows signs of drought stress.

Water requirements vary based on grass species, time of year, geographic location, soil conditions, amount of shade, and overall maintenance of a lawn. Because these varied factors each affect a lawn, rigid guidelines for your lawn’s irrigation frequency may not be accurate.   Instead, let your lawn tell you when to water.