Want a Lush Lawn?

A healthy, green lawn isn’t just about fertilization - it’s also about smart watering practices. Even though most professional lawn care companies don’t manage irrigation systems directly, homeowners and property managers can play a big role in how well their lawn performs. Taking a few minutes to observe your irrigation system in action can make a world of difference. You might spot sprinkler heads that are misaligned, malfunctioning, or wasting water in areas that don’t need it. What might have gone unnoticed during cooler, wetter weather quickly becomes problematic once summer heat sets in.

The most common questions we hear from customers about watering include:

• How much water should I use on my lawn?
• How often should I water my lawn?
• When is the best time of day to water my lawn?
• What happens if I skip lawn watering?

The answers may surprise you, but research from Michigan State University (MSU) backs them up.

MSU studies have shown that watering lightly on a frequent basis can lead to healthier, higher-quality turf than occasional deep watering. In one study, applying around 0.1 inch of water daily in early afternoon produced denser, greener turfgrass than watering once a week with 0.7 inch at a time. The takeaway here is that frequent, balanced watering can keep your lawn green and thick.

Another MSU study found similar results when comparing watering every other day versus once a week. The lawns watered more often looked better. Consistency is key, and pairing proper irrigation with a professional lawn fertilization program ensures your lawn always has the nutrients and moisture it needs - without waste or undue stress on the grass plants.

Of course, the amount of water your turf requires depends on the weather. On hot days, the combined loss of moisture from soil and grass blades can reach 0.3 inches per day. That means your lawn could lose as much as 2.1 inches of water in one week. For Kentucky bluegrass, returning about 80 percent of that loss, or roughly 1.7 inches, usually produces great results. The best approach is to break that total into multiple short watering cycles throughout the week. This method helps water soak into the soil more effectively, reduces runoff, and promotes deeper root growth.

When it comes to achieving a lawn you can be proud of, irrigation and fertilization go hand in hand. Regular watering inspections, smart scheduling, and consistent fertilization treatments keep lawns thick, green, and thriving all season long. If you’re ready to elevate your turf’s health and beauty, call Owen Tree & Lawn Care and we will help you tailor a lawn fertilization plan that fits your property perfectly.