Why Timing Matters for Lawn Watering
Detroit summers are known for their high heat and humidity, which means your lawn needs extra attention to stay green and healthy. While an irrigation timer makes watering more convenient, setting it at the wrong time of day can actually harm your lawn instead of helping it. One of the most common mistakes homeowners make is letting sprinklers run during the hottest part of the afternoon. Not only is this inefficient, but it can also damage grass blades and lead to wasted water. Understanding how and when to water will keep your lawn vibrant through Michigan’s toughest summer days.
The Risks of Watering in the Afternoon
When sprinklers run in the middle of a hot, sunny day, much of the water evaporates before it even has a chance to soak into the soil. That means your lawn gets less moisture and you waste more water. On top of that, droplets of water can act like magnifying glasses on grass blades, intensifying the sun’s rays and creating burn spots. These burned areas are often mistaken for drought stress or disease, when improper watering is the culprit.
By avoiding midday watering, you can reduce the risk of evaporation, lawn burn, and higher utility bills.
The Best Times to Water Your Lawn
Using your irrigation timer correctly ensures your grass gets the maximum benefit from every drop. The ideal times to water are:
- Early Morning (5–9 AM): This is the best window because temperatures are cooler, the wind is calmer, and your lawn has time to dry during the day. Less evaporation means more water reaches the roots.
- Early Evening (6–8 PM, only if needed): This can be a backup option if mornings aren’t possible. However, be careful not to water too late, since wet grass overnight can encourage lawn diseases like Dollar Spot and Brown Patch.
By setting your irrigation timer to water in the morning, you give your lawn the hydration it needs without increasing the risk of disease or waste.
How Long Should You Water?
The goal of lawn watering is to thoroughly soak the soil, allowing the roots to grow strong. Shallow watering only wets the surface, which makes grass more vulnerable during hot spells. In Michigan, most lawns need about 1–1.5 inches of water per week, either from rainfall or irrigation. A good rule of thumb is to water deeply two or three times per week, rather than lightly every day.
To test your irrigation timer’s effectiveness, place a few empty tuna cans or small containers around your yard and run the sprinklers. After a full cycle, measure the water depth. Adjust your timer until each watering session provides about half an inch. This method ensures consistent, even coverage across the lawn.
Avoiding Common Irrigation Mistakes
Even with a timer, there are a few other mistakes that can harm your lawn:
- Overwatering: Too much water suffocates the soil, causing root rot and fungal growth.
- Uneven Coverage: Make sure sprinkler heads are adjusted so every area of your yard gets water.
- Ignoring Weather: If rain is in the forecast, turn off your system to avoid soggy soil and wasted water.
- Short Run Times: Watering for just a few minutes isn’t enough. Aim for deeper, longer sessions a few times per week.
When set correctly, an irrigation timer can save money and conserve water while keeping your lawn lush and healthy.
Call the Lawn Experts for Professional Guidance
Getting the most out of your irrigation system doesn’t have to be a guessing game. Lakeside Pro’s team of lawn experts can evaluate your yard, fine-tune your irrigation schedule, and recommend services to keep your lawn thriving all season long.
Protect your lawn from wasted water and sun damage. Call Lakeside Pro today at 586.445.2100 to schedule your lawn service and get expert irrigation advice.