What You’ll Need
- Sprinkler system or hose with spray nozzle
- Water source
- Timer (optional but helpful)
- Rain gauge or container (to measure water applied)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Check Local Guidelines
Before you begin, review any local watering restrictions or council rules. Overwatering or breaching regulations can lead to hefty fines — and wasted effort. Always water responsibly.
2. Inspect Your Equipment
Make sure your hose, nozzle, or sprinkler system is in good working order. Faulty gear can lead to uneven coverage or wasted water. If it’s broken, replace it — don’t risk damaging your lawn.
3. Know Your Grass Type
Different lawn types have slightly different water needs. As a general rule:
- Cool-season grasses (e.g. ryegrass, fine fescue): ~25mm of water per week
- Warm-season grasses (e.g. kikuyu): ~25–30mm of water per week
💡 What does mm mean?
Millimetres of rainfall show how deep water would collect on a flat surface — this helps you measure how much water your lawn is really getting.
4. Water at the Right Time
- Best time: Early morning, between 6am–10am
- Why: Reduces evaporation loss and gives your lawn time to dry before nightfall, which helps prevent disease
- Avoid: Watering in the evening — it leaves grass wet overnight, increasing fungal risk
5. Use the Right Technique
- Aim for deep, even watering: One to two deep watering sessions per week is better than daily light watering.
- Encourage deep roots: Deep watering helps roots grow downwards, improving drought resistance.
- Measure water output: Use a rain gauge or container to check how much water your system delivers. Total water (including rainfall) should equal ~25mm per week.
6. Monitor and Adjust
- Soil check: Use a soil probe or dig a small hole to see if moisture has reached 15–20cm deep (6–8 inches).
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Adapt to the weather:
- Hot and dry? Water more often.
- Cool and wet? Cut back or pause watering.
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Watch for signs:
- Underwatering: Wilting, dry patches, pale grass
- Overwatering: Mushy soil, mushrooms, yellowing, disease
💡 Watering Tips
- Avoid runoff: Water slowly enough that the soil absorbs it — not so fast it runs off onto hard surfaces.
- Adjust sprinkler settings: Don’t waste water on paths, driveways, or gardens.
- Replace worn-out gear: A leaky hose or faulty sprinkler can do more harm than good.
