Watering the lawn is the most important aspect of lawn care. Using proper watering techniques ensures healthy, stress-free lawns that better resist pests and diseases. Lawn watering techniques also help homeowners save money and water while maintaining a beautiful and healthy lawn.

1) Water early in the morning or in the evening

Watering with irrigation systems and sprinklers is great for achieving uniform coverage. However, on hot, sunny or windy days, much water can be lost to evaporation. Watering just before the sun comes up or just after it goes down allows the water to get to the plant roots, but dry off of the plant leaves so that fungal and bacterial diseases do not spread.

2) Check your irrigation settings

A beautiful and uniform lawn is achieved by watering grass evenly. Check to see if you are achieving uniform watering coverage by setting straight-sided pans around your yard and running your irrigation system for a specific amount of time. Cut off the system and measure the amount of water in each pan. If there is more water in one pan than another, you will need to adjust your settings.

3) Water according to grass species needs

Different species of grass require different amounts of water. Bermuda and Zoysia grass need less water than St.Augustine and Centipede grasses. Water according to grass need, rather than a generic watering schedule.

4) Water differently for grass in sun and grass in shade

Grass of any species will need more water if it is in the sun and less if it grows in the shade. Adjust irrigation heads accordingly. You will use less water and prevent pest and disease spread.

5) Water in the morning to prevent spread of fungal disease

Grass needs air-circulation. If your grass grows in an area where air circulation is poor, be certain to water in the morning so that the grass blades have time to dry out. Additionally, consider introducing a fan to circulate air and prevent disease spread.

6) Test your water pH

The water pH can affect your grass health. Home pH testing kits are available at the local hardware store. Get one, and test your water. If your water is acidic or alkaline, you may need to add soil amendments to keep a healthy lawn. It is easier to amend the soil than it is to change your water source's pH level.

7) Water deeply and infrequently

This is the most often repeated phrase for plant watering techniques. It applies to lawns as well as trees, shrubs and ornamental plants. Watering deeply and infrequently promotes deep, healthy root growth, which allows the plant to stay vigorous even in times of drought. Give your grass one inch of water every three or four days to maintain adequate root growth.

These basic lawn watering techniques will help you keep your lawn healthy and happy.