Now that we’re in the summer months, watering the lawn becomes very a very important part of helping to keep it looking good.  But it’s how you water the lawn that becomes the most important part of the process.

First, the type of sprinkler you use really depends on personal preference and size of the yard.  And there are many styles to choose from. Here are the 3 most popular:

–         Stationary sprinklers spray water through a pattern of holes in the sprinkler, and the size, shape, pattern and water pressure determine the area covered.  These are usually best for smaller lawns, with their variety of spray patterns, and are quick to water each area.  

–         Oscillating sprinklers spray multiple streams of water from a curved tube that ‘oscillates’ back and forth in a rectangular pattern.  These are usually dependent on good water pressure, can cover fairly large areas, and can be adjusted to full sweeps, left, right, or center.

–         Pulsating or Impulse sprinklers are probably considered the most efficient and versatile.  They can operate on low pressure, and discharge more water in a given time and usually cover a greater area than other sprinklers.  And with the spray close to the ground, it is more wind resistant.

Second, how often you use your sprinklers is very important.  In most cases, lawns would like 1 inch of rainfall every 7-10 days.  And if Mother Nature doesn’t provide it, then you need to supplement.  And when you do, do it all at one time, not a little every 2-3 days.  Water less frequently, but deep and thoroughly.   This will encourage deeper root systems for your lawn, making them less susceptible to drought situations.

To check how much rainfall your lawn has gotten each week, simply check your rain gauge.  And if you don’t have one, get one!  By the way, the best time to water your lawn is between 5 and 9 in the morning.