Watering Wisely During Summer
As summer heat intensifies in the Glen Allen area, many homeowners worry about how much—or how little—they should water their lawns. It’s a great question, and at ELM Lawn Care, we believe smart watering is one of the most important steps you can take to keep your lawn healthy and resilient throughout the season.
Early morning watering helps reduce evaporation and gives your lawn a healthy start to the day.
Here’s what you need to know:
How Much Water Does Your Lawn Really Need?
Your lawn needs about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week, including rainfall. Overwatering can encourage shallow roots and disease, while underwatering can lead to stress, thinning, and browning.
A good rule of thumb: water deeply and less frequently. This encourages roots to grow deeper into the soil, helping your lawn withstand heat and dry spells.
When Is the Best Time to Water?
Early morning (between 5 a.m. and 9 a.m.) is the ideal window. Watering during this time reduces evaporation loss and allows grass blades to dry before evening, lowering the risk of fungus and mildew.
Avoid watering in the heat of the day—it’s inefficient. Also skip late evening watering, which can lead to disease due to excess moisture sitting overnight.
Don’t Rely on Sprinklers Alone
Sprinkler systems are convenient, but they aren’t perfect. Monitor your lawn for signs of overwatering (fungus, mushrooms, runoff) or underwatering (wilting, dry soil). Rain gauges or tuna cans can help you measure how much water your system actually delivers.
Watch for Watering Restrictions
Check with local authorities or HOAs during dry spells. Some areas may have limits on watering days or times. Adhering to these guidelines helps conserve water and keeps your community green.
Healthy Lawns Handle Heat Better
A properly watered lawn won’t just look good—it will stay healthy, with better resistance to pests, disease, and drought. If you're mowing regularly and keeping your lawn thick and well-maintained, proper watering is the final piece of the puzzle.
Need help adjusting your lawn care routine this summer? ELM Lawn Care is here to help with personalized recommendations and expert seasonal care. Your lawn deserves more than guesswork—it deserves attention from a team that cares.