The general recommendation for watering grass is to provide about 1 inch of water per week, which can be delivered through one deep watering or split into two or three sessions per week. This amount ensures the soil is soaked deeply enough to encourage strong root growth and healthy grass.
How often to water grass:
- Once or twice a week: For most lawns, watering deeply once or twice a week is sufficient, especially for warm-season grasses with deep roots
- Two to three times a week: Cool-season grasses often require more frequent watering, about two to three times per week, particularly during hot weather
- Three to four times a week: In very hot conditions (90°F or higher), watering three to four times a week may be necessary to prevent stress on the lawn
How long to water:
- Typically, sprinklers need to run about 30 to 45 minutes per session to deliver about half an inch of water, so two sessions of 30 minutes or three sessions of 20 minutes spread over the week are common practices
- Avoid daily light watering, which leads to shallow roots and weak grass. Instead, water deeply and less frequently to promote deep root growth
Best time to water:
- Water early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are cooler and evaporation is minimal. This helps water soak into the soil and reduces disease risk by allowing grass blades to dry during the day
Additional considerations:
- Adjust watering frequency based on grass type (warm-season vs. cool-season), soil type, climate, rainfall, and temperature.
- Avoid watering if rain is expected or has recently occurred to prevent overwatering
- Use rain sensors or soil moisture sensors if available to optimize watering schedules
In summary, aim to water your lawn deeply about 1 inch per week, divided into 1-3 sessions depending on grass type and weather, preferably in the early morning or late evening to maintain a healthy, green lawn.