Proper watering is key to keeping a lawn healthy and beautiful. It's best to water infrequently and deeply rather than often and lightly.

WEEKS 1-3:

During the first three weeks of your newly seeded lawn you want to keep the seeded surface moist being careful not to over-water which will cause your new seed to wash away. Watering is recommended two to three times per day with each watering lasting approximately 10-15 minutes each. Under most circumstances early morning watering schedules work the best. Do not walk on grass during this establishment period.

WEEKS 4-5:

As your new seed starts to develop you will want to begin watering less frequently but for longer durations. To ensure deep watering of the root zone a watering schedule of one to two times daily for 15-30 minutes is recommended. Caution should still be used to ensure the root zone is properly moist but that your watering schedule is not causing any soil erosion or run off.

NORMAL CARE:

As week 6 approaches, a normal watering schedule may begin. A goal of 1" of water per week should provide adequate moisture for proper growth and development. A good watering schedule would be every two to three days (more frequently if the weather is hot and humid) for 20-30 minutes. Adjust the watering schedule depending on weather, seasons and rainfall. Grasses generally require more water during their active growing season than when they're dormant, though all grasses need an average of 1-2 inches of water per week in summer; cool season grasses can take more than this in winter. 

TIPS:

• Your lawn will tell you when it needs water - two signs are when the grass changes from bright green to dull gray-green and when footprints remain when you walk across the lawn.
• To check how deep water is penetrating, probe the soil with a stiff wire or screwdriver. It will move easily through moist soil and be harder to push when it reaches dry soil.
• Maintain sprinkler systems so they operate efficiently. Watch them run, and make adjustments and fix clogs or leaks as necessary.

WARNINGS:

• Frequent, shallow watering results in shallow roots and a weak lawn.
• Applying too much water is wasteful and can cause lawn diseases and promote weed growth.