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Water-Wise Lawn Care

  • Water by the light of the moon.

Half of a home's annual water usage typically goes to lawn watering. Use less water and maintain a healthy, attractive lawn with these tips.

Watering Tips

  • Water only when grass turns a dull, grey-green color and footprints remain. After a rain, skip watering until the grass dries.
  • Bluegrass lawns generally require 1" - 2" of water per week, depending on the weather. Most shrubs and trees require less water than bluegrass, so water them separately.
  • Water no more than every third day so the grass develops deeper roots and uses moisture deep in the ground.
  • Water in the early morning or late evening when wind is minimal.
  • Design, install and operate a sprinkler system with water-efficiency in mind.
  • Follow Utilities' daily Lawn Watering Guide.
  • If you have an existing sprinkler system, sign up for a free audit.

Mowing Tips

  • Mow when it's cool to reduce stressing the grass.
  • Mow with a sharp mower blade. A dull blade tears grass and stresses the lawn.
  • Mow bluegrass 2 1/2 " - 3" tall to promote deeper rooting and to shade the plant's root zone. Never cut more than 1/3 of the leaf blade.
  • Leave clippings to add nutrients to the soil. A mulching mower chops grass into small pieces.

More Lawn Care Ideas

  • Aerate your lawn once a year.
  • Lightly fertilize bluegrass in the spring and fall. Fertilizer encourages grass to grow.
  • Replace some bluegrass with planting beds or low water-using turf. Many species provide seasonal colors and textures to ensure year round beauty.
  • Read about water-wise landscaping: Xeriscape.