Geting the most out of your summer watering
Fetalization and weed control are an important part of having a healthy green lawn this summer, but turf treatments are just a small part of a much bigger picture. Proper watering is the most important thing you can do for your lawn. Tropical grasses like bermuda, zoysia, and centipeed need
3-4 inches of rain a week to thrive any thing less and they are just surviving. Do not rely on Mother Nature to give you that mutch rain during the summer months. You will have to make up for the lack of rain with your irrigation system.
I am often asked “how long should I run my irrigation system for?” Every system is different so I can’t answer that question directly. What I can do is instruct you on how to calibrate your irrigation.
You will need two things and a few simple steps to be on your way to a beautiefull lawn this summer.
1) a stop watch (most stop watch apps are free)
2) a rain gauge (very inexpencive at your local hardware store)
Here are the steps
1) locate the spot in your lawn that dries out the fastest. Your lawn care specialist can help you find this area.
2) set up your rain gauge in this area
3) run your system in the zone where the rain gauge is
4) time how long it takes to fill the gauge too 1″
5) set your system to run each zone for that amount of time 3 to 4 times a week
Mowing also plays a part in a beautiefull healthy lawn. If you don’t have irrigation or can not water due to water restrictions their are some ways to help your lawn retain the moisture it gets. Mow your lawn at a higher setting (2.5 to 3 inches). This will shade the soil and help it keep its moisture. Do not cut off more than 1/3 of the grass blade in one mowing. If you would like us to provide a professional lawn analysis call 770-301-5643 today!
Andrew Barnhart
Turf Care Specialist
Mathis Outdoors Inc.