Loading ...
Many people hear the term water-wise and think they need to rip out huge portions of their lawn to be compatible. For some, that may sound desirable, but others love their grass and don’t want to go to those extremes. While grass may often be a water guzzler, there are ways to keep your beloved soft, green lawn while also taking strides to save some precious H20.
The first step for a healthy lawn in Utah is to select quality sod designed to withstand our climate. High-quality sod that starts off right here in our state, without weeds or diseases, will be able to take off strongly at your property. If your sod has been down for years, it probably needs some maintenance to help with water retention, such as aerating, weed management, mulching, and possibly fertilization.
Consider taking out some portions of your lawn (even just a few small sections) and bring in some beautiful water-wise, native perennials. This will add texture and appeal while not invading too much on your picnic space or turf for family football games. Water-wise plants are great here in Utah because they can be very low maintenance, and we have an incredible selection to choose from.
A healthy, appropriately watered lawn is a must. Check your sprinkling system for leaks or issues, water only at cooler times of the day (any time between 10pm and 7am), and make sure you’re opting for longer, deeper waterings fewer times throughout the week. You do not need to water every single day, even in the hottest times of the summer. In fact, your grass will look greener and lusher with longer, deeper waterings two to three times a week versus every day for ten minutes. Deeper waterings two to three times a week will promote deeper root growth, which will help the grass stay healthier all summer long. Also check your sprinkler heads to ensure they’re not shooting into the road or spray nothing but sidewalks. This will help you avoid wasting water, and if you’re on a culinary-only system, it will save you money too.
Some maintenance tips for your lawn include mowing it a little longer than you’d like. This also helps with root growth and keeps the roots a little cooler. Keeping the mower cut a higher, even if it means mowing more often, will reduce turf stress throughout the summer. Consider using mulch (either mulching the grass clippings or bringing some in for your plants) to help with water retention and weed control. Aeration is helpful for compacted soils, and fertilization may be needed if your grass has a lot of weeds or pests are taking over. Overwatering can often bring in pests or diseases, and if you start seeing mushrooms pop up, you’re probably overwatering those areas. Underwatering can also add to weed growth, so it’s important to monitor your watering habits and adjust as needed. The Dirt Bag can help you ensure your lawn and plants are healthy and happy—give us a try!
