When it comes to watering your lawn, it is easy to stick to the same irrigation schedule year round. But your lawn’s water needs change with the seasons, or even from week to week, or day to day based on rainfall and temperature.
In addition to receiving regular lawn treatment in Tampa from Nvirotect Pest Control Services, giving your grass the right amount of water helps it grow strong and can help to prevent pests, weeds, and lawn disease.
Adjust Your Watering Throughout the Year
Most established Florida lawns need about one inch of water each week, which does include total rainfall. However, that amount may vary drastically depending on the weather. In the spring, lawns usually need less water because temperatures are milder and it usually will rain a bit more. During the summer, hot weather can dry out your lawn quickly, but frequent afternoon storms may be able to help provide enough moisture to make up for it. In the fall and winter, cooler temperatures slow grass growth, so irrigation can often be reduced.
Instead of following the same schedule all year, we recommend that you check your lawn regularly and adjust your watering as the conditions change.
What Happens During a Drought?
When grass does not receive enough water, it begins to slow its growth to conserve energy. Over time, the blades may turn gray or brown and curl, become dry, and remain flattened after being stepped on.
A drought-stressed lawn is also more likely to attract insects and weeds. Pests like Chinch Bugs are more likely to damage weakened grass, and because thinning turf gives weeds room to spread, the problems can aggregate. During drier periods, keeping your Tampa lawn treatment recurring services can also help, especially if there is another pair of trained eyes looking out for your lawn.
The Problems With Overwatering
Even though it may seem incorrect, too much water can be just as harmful as too little. Soil that is consistently wet prevents the grass roots from getting enough oxygen, which can create the perfect environment for fungal diseases like Brown Patch, Dollar Spot, Gray Leaf Spot, and Take-All Root Rot. Overwatering also encourages shallow roots, which means that your lawn is less able to handle hot, dry weather.
Tips to Keep Your Irrigation System in Good Shape
A watering schedule is only effective if your irrigation system is working properly. Your sprinkler heads should be checked regularly for damage, clogs, leaks, or uneven spray patterns.
Low water pressure may leave dry spots patched throughout your lawn, and high pressure can create mist that blows away before reaching the lawn. Sprinkler heads should also be adjusted so they are watering your grass instead of sidewalks or driveways.
Routine irrigation inspections help ensure your lawn receives even coverage while preventing wasted water.
A Healthier Lawn Starts With Proper Watering
Proper watering is one of the easiest ways to keep your lawn looking its best. If your lawn is struggling despite proper watering, scheduling your Tampa lawn fertilizer services with Nvirotect Pest Control Services can identify pest problems and recommend the most effective solutions to help keep your yard healthy year-round.
If you think that your lawn has signs of drought stress or is in need of Tampa lawn fertilizer, weed, disease, or lawn destroying pest service, call Nvirotect Pest Control Services today at 813.968.7031 or complete our contact request form for a competitive quote.
