Smart Irrigation Practices for a Thriving Lawn in North Idaho

🌱 Healthy Lawn Tips from Four Seasons Lawn & Pest

As the temperatures rise, proper watering is essential to keep your cool-season grass green, healthy, and drought-resistant. Whether you’re using a traditional sprinkler system or a water-saving irrigation setup, here’s how to get the most out of your watering routine this season:

💧 Best Time to Water: Early Morning Wins

The ideal time to water your lawn is between 4:00 AM and 8:00 AM.Watering in the early morning allows the grass to dry throughout the day, reducing the risk of disease and preventing water loss from evaporation and wind.

Avoid watering in the evening or midday:

• Evening watering can lead to disease from prolonged moisture.

• Midday watering results in wasted water due to evaporation.

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⏱️ How Long Should You Water?

Cool-season grasses typically need 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week, including rainfall. Here's how to break that down depending on your irrigation setup:

➤ Standard Irrigation System:

• Water 3 days per week, about 30–45 minutes per zone.

• Adjust for hotter weeks: increase frequency rather than duration to prevent runoff.

• Perform the tuna can test: place a can on the lawn and time how long it takes to collect ½ inch of water.

➤ Water-Saving Systems (like MP Rotators or Drip Irrigation):

• Water 3–4 days per week, about 45–60 minutes per zone, depending on output.

• These systems apply water more slowly and more efficiently—ideal for sloped or compacted lawns.

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🌿 Pro Tips for Lawn Health

✅ Water deeply and infrequently to encourage strong root growth.✅ Mow high (3”–4”) to shade the soil and reduce water needs.✅ Watch for signs of drought stress: footprints that linger, bluish-gray tint, or wilting blades.✅ Avoid watering during rain or immediately after treatments unless specified.

Stay green and hydrated,

Your friendly lawn professionals