What is the best irrigation practice for maintaining lawns?

Irrigating deeply and infrequently is the best practice for maintaining lawns because it encourages deeper root growth. When water is applied in smaller amounts on a daily basis, the roots tend to stay near the surface, making the grass more susceptible to drought and stress. Deep irrigation allows water to penetrate deeper into the soil, promoting healthier, more resilient plants that are better equipped to access moisture in lower soil layers. This method also improves soil structure and reduces runoff and evaporation losses, making water use more efficient.

In contrast, watering multiple times a day can result in shallow root systems and can lead to overwatering issues, which may promote diseases or fungal growth. Irrigating a small amount each day may not provide sufficient moisture to the roots, thereby leading to a weaker lawn. While evening irrigation is often recommended to reduce evaporation, it’s essential that the watering schedule also incorporates deep and less frequent practices for optimal lawn health. Therefore, the practice of irrigating deeply and infrequently stands out as the most effective technique.