Drought is hard on lawns. Without proper watering, grass blades can become dry and brown, leading to bare patches or even an entirely dead lawn. But over-watering causes just as much damage; it creates a favorable environment for fungus, which then spreads and kills the grass.
So how do you know when your grass needs water? The best way is by checking soil moisture with a soil probe or gardening knife. Push the probe into the ground lightly and pull up some dirt; if it clings to the blade of your tool, then you don’t need to water it yet.
Many homeowners rely on the “footprint test,” too: if footprints stay visible in your grass after walking through it, then clearly, your lawn needs hydration. Additionally, look at the color of your turf—it should be bright green, not yellow or brown—as well as its height and texture; it should feel soft when touched (not straw-like), indicating high levels of moisture.
Lastly, consider local weather conditions. Your grass likely needs extra hydration during times of extended heat or when there’s less rain than usual; conversely, excessive rain may mean that no additional water is necessary for some time afterward.