Proper irrigation can be one of the most challenging aspects of managing turf.
Watering is essential for supplementing rainfall, washing in fertilizers and pesticides, keeping soil moist for seed germination, and cools the turf and root system on hot summer days.
Proper irrigation practices have taken on more significance in recent years with the increased importance of water conservation. Water restrictions are becoming more commonplace as the irrigation of lawns and landscaping can use as much as fifty percent of the water supply during summer.
In case you missed our last article, here is a recap of correct watering tips: Water infrequently applying about ½ inch of water each time; Once you start watering, continue to water; If you quit for several weeks, it is likely best not to restart; Once the lawn turns brown (dormant) it is very difficult to restore a lawn until cooler temperatures return; and Apply enough water to moisten top six inches of soil.
I am often asked, when is the best time to water? My answer is whenever you can. However, there are some advantages and disadvantages to watering at various times of the day.
Night watering results in less evaporation due to lower temperatures, reduced wind and higher humidity.
Evenings are usually more convenient to homeowners due to work schedules.
A serious drawback of irrigation at this time is that disease activity may increase on wet turf.
Fungal spore germination and spore penetration requires several hours of water on leaf blades so the turf may be more susceptible to disease.
Midday irrigation will reduce possible lawn diseases. However, as much as fifty percent of the water applied may evaporate before benefitting the lawn.
Watering at midday can also damage the lawn due to scalding, if the turf becomes submerged or partially submerged on a bright, sunny day.
Plus, sprinkler water patterns may be disrupted due to wind, and may also interfere with use of the lawn.
Morning watering is generally considered the best time to water.
Winds are usually reduced at this time, humidity is high and evaporation is low.
Early morning also avoids free water on the leaves, reducing disease development. There is also reduced interference of lawn use during the early hours.
Another advantage of watering in the morning is that guttation water is removed from the leaf surface.
Guttation water is the fluid excreted from the plant tissue overnight. It is rich in organic and inorganic substances, and provides a medium for pathogens that cause lawn diseases. |
Email
Print
Facebook
StumbleUpon
Google
Yahoo!