1/29/24, 3:42 PM When Should You Start Watering Your Lawn?

| Smart Rain

January 16, 2024

When Should You Start Watering Your

Lawn?

When should you start watering your lawn? Well, it’s a tricky question.

Winter is coming to a close and it’s time to start prepping for spring! Landscaping season is right
around the corner, and it may sneak up on you if you're not careful. There’s so much that needs to be
done before landscaping season, it can be quite daunting to even think about landscape prep. But it’s
crucial for you to consider how you're going to begin irrigating your property.

Not all areas are the same. In this guide, we’ll go through different regions of the United States that
have different climate conditions, so that you know exactly how and when to water your property this
spring.

Read about your region:

Northeastern United States

Southeastern United States
Northcentral United States
Southcentral United States
Northwestern United States
Southwestern United states

Northeastern United States

If you live in the Northeastern United States, a general guideline for watering your property is from
May through October. This period encompasses the warmer months when plants require more
moisture. It's recommended to water in the morning before the dew dries off or complete watering
by 10 am to allow the grass and soil to dry before evening. When it comes to watering your property,
here are some tips:

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Water deeply: Ensure that the water penetrates the soil and reaches the root zone of the plants.
Shallow watering can promote shallow root growth, making plants more susceptible to drought
stress.
Use proper irrigation techniques: Consider using methods like drip irrigation or soaker hoses to
deliver water directly to the root zone, minimizing water loss through evaporation. Adjust your
sprinkler system to avoid overspray on paved areas or non-landscaped areas.
Observe the weather conditions: Consider natural rainfall when determining how much and
how often to water. If there has been adequate rainfall, adjust your watering schedule
accordingly to avoid overwatering.
Mulch your beds: Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as wood chips or straw, around plants
and in garden beds. Mulch helps retain soil moisture, suppresses weed growth, and regulates
soil temperature.

Southeastern United States

In the Southeastern United States, it is recommended to begin watering your property in late
February to early March. The watering requirements of your property may vary based on the climate
and weather patterns of the region. Here are some suggestions for watering your property in the
Southeast:

Be mindful of the hot and humid climate: The Southeastern region often experiences hot and
humid summers, which can increase water evaporation rates. As a result, plants may require
more frequent watering compared to other regions.
Water early in the morning: Watering in the early morning allows plants to absorb moisture
before the sun's heat intensifies. Watering during cooler hours also reduces the risk of fungal
diseases caused by prolonged moisture on leaves and grass blades.
Consider using a soaker hose or drip irrigation: These methods deliver water directly to the
plant's root zone, minimizing water loss from evaporation or runoff. They are efficient ways to
conserve water while effectively hydrating your plants.
Monitor rainfall and adjust watering accordingly: Keep track of the local weather conditions and
natural rainfall. If there has been adequate rainfall, you may need to adjust your watering
schedule accordingly to avoid overwatering.

Northcentral United States

In the northcentral parts of the United States, you’ll want to start watering your property in late March
and in the beginning of April depending on the current weather conditions. Before starting to water,
it's important to assess the soil moisture levels. If the soil is still saturated or too wet due to

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snowmelt or early spring rainfall, you may not need to water immediately. Here’s some more
watering tips:

Watering timing: It is best to water your lawn in the early morning hours before it gets hot. This
allows the water to penetrate the soil and be absorbed by the roots before evaporation occurs.
Alternatively, you can water in the evening, but do it early enough so that the grass has time to
dry before nighttime, which helps prevent fungal diseases.
Watering frequency: Rather than following a fixed schedule, it is recommended to water your
lawn on an as-needed basis in the Northcentral region. Monitor the moisture levels of your
lawn and water when the soil is dry or when the grass shows signs of stress, such as wilting or
discoloration. This approach ensures efficient water use and prevents overwatering.
Deep and infrequent watering: When you do water, aim for deep watering sessions. This means
providing enough water to penetrate the root zone, typically around 6 to 8 inches deep. This
encourages stronger root growth and helps the lawn withstand drought conditions.
Observe local regulations: Be aware of any water restrictions or guidelines implemented in your
area. Some regions may have specific rules regarding the times and days when watering is
allowed. Adhering to these regulations promotes responsible water usage.
Adjust for seasonal changes: As the seasons change, adjust your watering practices
accordingly. During cooler months, such as winter, you may need to reduce the frequency of
watering. Conversely, in hotter summer months, you may need to water more frequently to
meet the demands of your lawn.

Southcentral United States

If you reside in the Southcentral United States, it is recommended to start watering your lawn in late
February and early March. The region experiences a less severe winter compared to other areas in
the country, so your grass will be ready for watering sooner. Here are some general guidelines for
watering your property in the Central United States:

Understand regional and local climate: The Southcentral United States spans a vast area with
varying climates. It's important to consider factors like average temperature, rainfall patterns,
and soil type specific to your location. This information will help determine the watering needs
of your plants.
Water early in the morning: Watering your plants in the early morning allows them to absorb
moisture before the day heats up. This timing helps reduce water loss through evaporation and
minimizes the risk of fungal diseases caused by prolonged leaf wetness.
Adjust watering based on rainfall: Monitor local rainfall patterns and adjust your watering
schedule accordingly. If there has been significant rainfall, you may need to reduce or skip

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watering sessions to prevent overwatering.

Observe plant needs and adjust: Different plants have varying water requirements. Pay
attention to the specific needs of your landscape plants, including lawn grasses, flowers,
shrubs, and trees. Adjust watering based on their individual requirements.

Northwestern United States

Northwestern winters are quite wet. Overwatering may be an issue if you aren’t careful. Since the
winters are so wet, it’s advisable to wait until late April or early May. Of course, you should follow
current weather conditions. Here’s some things to consider as you start your sprinkler system up:

Watering season: In the Pacific Northwest, the lawn watering season typically lasts from May
to September. Adjust your watering schedule accordingly during these months.
Water consistently: Consider using a built-in sprinkler system to water your lawn consistently
and evenly. This can help ensure efficient watering practices.
Watering frequency: Lawns allowed to go brown may benefit from deep watering once a month
during the summer to keep the roots alive.
Morning watering: Whenever possible, water your landscape in the early morning hours to
minimize evaporation and enable better absorption by the plants.
Remember to adjust these tips based on weather conditions, specific grass types, and any
local watering restrictions or guidelines in your area.

Southwestern United States

Of course, you need to monitor your local weather to ensure that you aren’t causing harm by
watering too early. March is when you should aim to look at starting up your irrigation system. These

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areas are quite dry, so be sure you are following these tips to thoroughly water your property:

Adjust your watering cycles: Instead of watering your lawn frequently with shallow amounts of
water, it is advisable to water it deeply and less often. This promotes the growth of deeper
roots and increases the grass's ability to withstand drought conditions.
When to water: Optimal watering for your lawn is in the early morning when moisture can
penetrate the soil before the day heats up. This minimizes water loss from evaporation and
helps prevent the development of fungal diseases.
Adjust your watering according to climate conditions: To accommodate the arid climate of the
Southwestern United States, it is crucial to adjust your watering schedule according to the
season. During hotter summer months, more frequent watering may be necessary, while in
cooler months, watering frequency can be reduced.
Don’t overwater: Be cautious of overwatering as it can result in shallow root growth, increased
weed proliferation, and excess runoff. To avoid this, wait for visible signs that your lawn
requires water, such as slight wilting or footprints remaining on the grass after walking on it.

In conclusion, proper lawn watering after wintertime is crucial for maintaining a healthy and vibrant
lawn throughout the year. By following the tips mentioned in this blog post, such as deep watering,
adjusting watering frequency based on the season, and being mindful of overwatering, you can
ensure that your lawn thrives and remains resilient to drought conditions. Remember, each region
and type of grass may have its own specific guidelines, so it's essential to consider local climate and
watering restrictions. By implementing these practices, you'll be well on your way to enjoying a lush
and beautiful lawn that enhances the overall appeal of your property. So, take the necessary steps to
care for your lawn and enjoy the benefits of a green oasis right outside your doorstep.

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