Spring in Alabama brings bursts of rain, warmer days, and the start of serious lawn growth. But don’t let those scattered showers fool you—most lawns don’t get the consistent water they need just from rain alone. Poor watering habits now can set your yard up for stress, disease, or bare spots by summer.
Rain Isn’t a Guarantee of Lawn Health
Just because the forecast calls for rain doesn’t mean your soil is soaking it up properly. Spring storms often produce runoff rather than deep moisture penetration, especially if your soil is compacted. Areas under trees, on slopes, or near structures may remain dry even after rain. Your lawn requires consistent moisture—not just random puddles.
Deep, Infrequent Watering Matters
Frequent, shallow watering encourages shallow roots, making your lawn susceptible to drought and heat stress. Instead, aim for about one inch of water per week (rain plus irrigation). Deep, infrequent watering encourages grass roots to extend deeper into the soil, improving drought resistance and overall lawn health.
Water Early in the Morning
Early morning watering, ideally between 5 a.m. and 9 a.m., maximizes water absorption and minimizes evaporation. It also helps grass blades dry during the day, reducing the risk of fungal diseases that thrive overnight on wet grass.
How to Know When Your Lawn Needs Watering
Here are quick and reliable checks to determine lawn moisture:
- Footprint Test: Walk across your lawn; if footprints remain visible, your lawn needs watering.
- Screwdriver Test: Difficulty inserting a screwdriver six inches into the soil indicates dryness.
- Color Check: Wilting or dull-colored grass signals the need for water.
🚨 Bonus Tip: Overwatering can be just as damaging. Look out for soggy spots or mushrooms, indicating excess moisture.
Prevent Runoff and Improve Absorption
Compacted soil often results in poor water absorption and runoff. If water pools or quickly drains off your lawn, consider aeration. Spring aeration loosens compacted soil, allowing water to penetrate deeply, promoting stronger roots and better overall lawn health.
Your Irrigation System Might Be Wasting Water (and Money)
If your irrigation system hasn’t been checked this season, now is the perfect time. Broken sprinkler heads, clogged nozzles, and improper timing can result in uneven watering, dry patches, and diseases. A quick inspection and tune-up by professionals can ensure efficient operation and significant savings.
Let Steven’s Wack-N-Sack Help You Get it Right
Proper lawn watering in spring ensures your lawn stays healthy throughout summer. Steven’s Wack-N-Sack offers comprehensive lawn assessments, aeration, irrigation inspections, and customized watering plans specifically tailored to your lawn’s unique needs.
👉 Schedule your spring service today. 📞 Call or request service online—Steven’s Wack-N-Sack makes lawn care simple.
