Turf, sod, and grass need water. Finding the perfect amount of irrigation for your landscape, especially if elements are newly laid, is important for ensuring a healthy, green yard and lawn. Here’s a brief guide on what you should and shouldn’t do when watering your turf.

Do:

Time watering.

New turf grass and sod should be watered within a half hour of installation. The area should be well saturated to ensure the layer underneath is sufficiently wet. Make sure at least one inch of water is delivered so the moisture penetrates at least three inches down.

Water often in hot weather.

If the sun is strong and temperatures are high, you may have to water more to prevent drying out. For two weeks after installation, turf must stay saturated. High heat and heavy winds can turn well-hydrated grass into an arid landscape. Check often and apply more water if necessary.

Water early in the day.

The earlier in the day you irrigate, the better off your turf will be. Morning hours coincide perfectly with your grass’s growth schedule. Morning tends to see lower wind gusts and less evaporation from the hot sun as well.

Don’t:

Miss the edges.

The whole area should be covered, even areas where you have a sprinkler irrigation system. Corners and edges are easily missed, especially those near structures on your property. Test the area to check that it is damp enough by touching the surface and lifting a corner to view the underside.

Waste water.

If your landscaping is sloped or you notice runoff, give your watering a break. Moisture isn’t penetrating the soil and continuing to water will only waste the resource. When you notice excess water, wait about an hour and then return to that spot to check water levels and moisture in the turf.

Overwater.

An inch of water per week is enough to keep lawns healthy all season. This includes rainwater. Avoid overwatering, taking into account the weather. If it is a particularly rainy week, adjust your watering schedule. If it rains early in the day and the sun beats down later, check levels and apply more only if areas seem dried out or look gray or blue in color.

Turf grass needs a strict watering schedule to stay healthy. If you live on Oahu, rely on Alii Turf in Wahiawa, HI, as your supplier of turf, sod, and other lawn necessities. Locally owned, their quality products ensure that landscaping looks lush and healthy, promoting a better environment along with beautiful property. For residential, commercial, and even golf course turf and grass, call (808) 293-8873 or visit their website.