Be water-wise
If possible, water the lawn early in the morning on days when there is no wind. Water only when the lawn is dry. Do not over- water. If you are seeing runoff, the ground may be soaked. One of the more common over-watering problems is caused by not adjusting a sprinkler system for cooler weather or rain. We have all seen sprinklers going full spurt ahead when it's been raining all day. Drowned roots do not produce healthy lawns. It is also possible that the water pressure or amount is excessive, with more water being applied than the soil can absorb at one time, so it runs off. Underneath the top layer, the soil may be dry.
Before you decide that you're over-watering, check out whether the water is actually sinking in. If it's not, you'll need to try a more moderate approach to watering.
Under-watering can be a problem too. Grass roots will only survive with some moisture. If there isn't enough, the grass may be unable to withstand drought. Check your sprinkler system as the seasons change. The heat of summer is simply going to require more water for your lawn. Check how deeply the water has been absorbed with a spade, digging to about 15 centimeters. The soil should be damp. Check several spots, as absorption on slopes or in hollows will differ. If you don't like digging, buy a lawn-water measuring gadget.
• Grass roots soon show the signs of a lack of water If roots remain too close to the surface (top), it means they're just not getting enough moisture down in the soil where they need it. To ensure healthy roots (bottom) make sure that water is getting to a depth of at least 10 to 15 centimeters.
A simple Summary
Different grasses have different needs. Check out the strengths and weaknesses of the grasses you like so that you select the correct variety.
Do not over-water, and check to make certain water is soaking down into the soil rather than running off.
Fertilize your lawn regularly and in the recommended seasons. Lawns need lots of nutrients to be healthy
Be honest with yourself about how much time you actually have to spend on lawn care, and how willing you are to use that time for lawn work.
Be aware of any water limitations in your area, current or pending.
Make sure you choose the grass variety that is most suited to your area and to your site.
You can plant grass with seeds, turves, sprigs, or plugs.
Weeding wisely
Patience is most definitely a virtue when it comes to picking out weeds from pretty green lawns. Among the many perennial and annual weeds you may encounter are bindweed, black medic, clover, celandine, dandelion, and plantain. The most effective weed deterrent is a healthy, dense lawn that is well fertilized, watered, and has plenty of air circulation and the sunshine it needs. Always mow to the recommended height. If you mow too short, low-growing weeds have more space to thrive. Pull weeds out consistently so as not to let them get a foothold and just use herbicides on the areas where pulling just won't do the job. There are some organic weed sprays on the market, but you may have to look in specialist catalogues. Chapter 21 covers the use of herbicides in detail.
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