Follow our five-week watering schedule and tips to establish healthy turf:

 

Week 1: One-half inch per day
(preferably a quarter inch in the morning and a quarter inch in the evening)
Week 2: One-half inch per day
(preferably all at one time to begin developing a deeper root system)
Week 3: One-half inch every two-to-three days
(exact need depends on site conditions, grass type, and installation)
Week 4: One-half inch every three days
(preferably the full one-half inch in the morning)
Week 5: One-half inch every three days
(preferably the full one-half inch in the morning)

Other Tips on a Healthy Start to Your Lawn

  • Plant turf only in healthy soil with plenty of organic compost. The deeper the soil the better.
  • Ensure full contact of the sod back to the topsoil by using a roller or other method. Air pockets between the sod and topsoil will generally cause grass to die regardless of how much you water.
  • Ground should be thoroughly saturated at the time of planting.
  • Choose the right grass for the job:
    • Bermuda – Full sun, heavy traffic
    • Buffalo – Full sun, no traffic, Texas country look or wildflower patch
    • Zoysia – Shade, dappled sun, moderate traffic

Remember:

  • The goal is to develop deep roots for maximum drought tolerance.
  • Grass areas should only be as big as you need for kids, pets and entertaining. Turf should not be used as the default ground cover.
  • Drought-tolerant grass is able to survive dry spells by going dormant (turning brown). It’s not dead; just sleeping until the next rain.
  • Keeping drought-tolerant grass green can take as much water as non-drought tolerant varieties. Show your community spirit and let your lawn “sleep” in the summer.
  • Even established St. Augustine grass can survive on one-half inch of water every two weeks in the hottest part of summer. Even less water is required in the shade and during cooler times of the year.
  • SAWS has rebates and resources available to help you save water in your landscape.