Watering for a Healthy Lawn
Keeping a green lawn can be an important issue for local homeowners. For many, it is an investment of time, materials, and plants used to beautify their outdoor living spaces. Therefore, maintaining it is important. With high summer temperatures and often water conservation regulations, it may seem a challenge. But how much water does it really take to keep a Texas lawn green? Fortunately, not as much as many might think.
One inch of water per week during the summer will keep most Texas lawns green and healthy. The best times to water are early morning or evening, when the sun is the weakest. This prevents instant evaporation. Abilene encourages these times with its water conservation ordinance that prohibits watering between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. That might not sound like enough, but watering less frequently. helps lawns grow longer, tougher roots allowing them to take in more water during, especially during then hotter months,
As not all grass is not the same. Whether you are putting down a new lawn or maintaining an existing one, here are some specific tips for different types of grass.
St. Augustine is the most common but may not be the best choice for yards in Texas. It requires more water than other types, and with necessary water restrictions, this can present a problem. It is also vulnerable to pests and law diseases prevalent during summer.
Bermuda may be the best choice for a Texas lawn as it does well in the sun and is quite resistant to drought. Even with very little watering, it still grows and thrives.
Buffalo and Zoysia are two types of grass that are highly tolerant to drought. Although Buffalo is resilient and can survive during dry summers, it has a tendency to brown. Where as Zoysia often remains lush, even in shaded areas.
Taking care of your lawn can seem like a daunting task during the hot summer months coupled with water restrictions, but with a consistency and these tips, you can keep your grass healthy and green all year round.