While your lawn needs water to survive, there is such a thing as overwatering. Improper lawn irrigation resulting in excessive moisture can cause problems, like the growth of weeds. To avoid such damage, learn to identify the below signs of an overwatered lawn.

4 Signs Grass Is Getting Too Much Water

1. Thatch 

Thatch consists of partially decomposed plant matter that forms a dense mat on the soil's surface. Normally, microorganisms break down plant material before thatch can form. Too much water prevents these microorganisms from doing their job, allowing for thatch to build up. Remove thatch manually using a hand-held weeding rake. Dig the prongs into the soil to get beneath the thatch, and then pull it up and out. 

2. Bugs 

Thatch can provide a welcome home for bugs, protecting them from insecticides. While not all bugs are bad for gardens, critters that come with overwatering tend to be harmful. White grubs feed on grassroots, for instance. To get rid of them, buy nematodes at a gardening store and add them to your lawn's soil. These organisms feed on the grubs, but don’t harm grass.

3. Weeds 

Weeds like crabgrass and yellow nutsedge grow better in over-watered areas. Nutsedge stands taller than normal grass, making it easy to spot. It has a triangular stem that usually has three leaves and yellow flowers at the top. Crabgrass grows in clumps, with stems angling outward instead of upward, which resemble the legs of a crab lying on its back. Remove these plants by pulling at the root to prevent regrowth.

4. Standing Water 

Your lawn should feel firm when you walk on it. If it’s soft, the soil is holding too much water. Pools of water on the lawn are another sign that the soil is overly saturated. If the soil can’t absorb more moisture, water may even spillover from your yard and run off the property altogether. A new lawn irrigation system can help.

Design Rite Sprinkler Company of Milford, OH, has been helping homeowners get healthy, lush lawns for over 25 years. Since 1996, this full-service irrigation company has been providing lawn irrigation installation, backflow prevention testing, and landscape lighting. They serve customers throughout Cincinnati, OH, and northern Kentucky, and pride themselves on their prompt, professional service. Visit their website for a full overview of their services. To discuss your lawn care needs, call (513) 248-8999.