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Establishing
Deeper Roots
Lawns with deep root systems are healthier and
use less water. Avoid light frequent watering
on established lawns. Applying water in less
frequent waterings allows water to soak deeply
into soils. This will allow roots to use water
in the ground rather than only surface water,
making your lawn more drought tolerant.
“Cycle and Soak.” This method allows
water to soak deep into your soil. This works
by dividing the current run time into three
separate cycles (For example, if you are currently
watering in 21-minute watering cycles, water
instead in three seven minute cycles. Once you
have completed the first seven-minute cycle,
run a second and third cycle.) This will allow
an air pocket to form between the three layers
of water, pushing the water deeper into the
soil.
Water usage averages are affected by many variables.
Water usage may need to be increased due to
poor soil, wind, excessively high temperatures,
reflective surfaces (sod near fences, brick
walls, etc.), or in areas where run-off may
occur (e.g., slopes, hills). Additionally, water
usage may need to be decreased in shady areas.
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Mowing
Is your lawn shorter than your carpet? Mowing
your lawn at such a short length hurts the grass,
wastes water and encourages more green waste.
By raising your lawn mower height another 1⁄2
to 1 inch, you are promoting the conservation
of water in grass. Grass will shade itself as
it grows longer, reducing its overall water need.
This, in turn, reduces the growth rate of the
grass- meaning less frequent mowing! Experts recommend
cutting grass to a total length of 3 inches, and
removing no more than one-third of the leaf blade
per mowing. |
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Stressing
Ever heard the expression "What doesn’t kill
you only makes you stronger"? In order to make
your grass heartier, try stressing it out! By going
an extra day without water here and there, you are promoting
deeper root growth. The deeper the roots are allowed
to penetrate the soil, the better overall health of
your lawn. Roots will only grow as far as they need
to in order to get water. If you are always giving them
water up near the surface of the lawn, the plants have
no incentive to grow deeper. You can easily check your
rooting depth by using a soil probe or screwdriver.
Try waiting as long as possible in the spring to water
your grass. The longer you wait, the healthier your
lawn will be in the summer months. And don’t worry
it’s virtually impossible to kill your lawn. The
lawn may turn brown in areas, but it is just the plant
going DORMANT, not dying. Adding water will make that
spot spring back to life! |
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