When should I water my lawn?

If I have been asked this once, I have been asked it a thousand times. As a great and wise man once answered, “Would you like to go to bed with wet feet?”

The best time to water your lawn is typically early in the morning or late in the afternoon. This timing minimizes water evaporation and ensures that the water soaks deeply into the soil, promoting healthy root growth.

• Early Morning (Before 10 AM): The cooler temperatures and calm breezes help in reducing evaporation and ensuring water penetrates deeply into the soil. Morning watering also gives the grass blades time to dry before nightfall, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.

• Late Afternoon (Around 4 PM to Early Evening): If you can't water in the morning, the next best time is during the late afternoon or early evening. However, you should avoid watering too late, as this can leave the lawn damp overnight, increasing the risk of diseases and pests.

• Avoid Midday Watering: During the middle of the day, particularly in the hotter months, evaporation rates are high, so a significant portion of water can be lost before it benefits the lawn.

• Consider Local Climate Variations: In different parts of Australia, the best watering practices might change slightly. For example, in more humid areas, watering in the evening might be more acceptable, while in arid regions, maximizing water retention with early morning watering might be more crucial.

• Follow Watering Restrictions: If you are unable to use recycled/collected water be aware that in Australia there are often water restrictions due to drought conditions or water scarcity. It's important to be aware of and adhere to these restrictions when planning your watering schedule.

• Watering Frequency and Depth: It’s generally better to water less frequently but more deeply to encourage deep root growth, which is crucial for drought tolerance. The specifics of this will depend on your soil type and the local climate.

Remember, the objective of watering is to maintain a healthy lawn that can withstand the variable conditions in Australia, from intense heat in summer to potential cold snaps in certain regions during winter. Proper watering practices are essential for sustainable and efficient lawn care.

Remember, when next summer comes around and you can’t remember when to water, ask yourself the question. Would you like to go to bed with wet feet?