Watering is key when it comes to growing new grass. Aim for deep, infrequent watering rather than frequent shallow sprinkles. This encourages the roots to grow deeper and stronger, helping your yard stay healthy year-round.
So, how often should you water new grass? It depends on a few factors: the type of soil, the weather conditions, your irrigation system, and most importantly: new sod or seed.
For newly-sown seeds, give consistently light showers every day until germination takes place. Once sprouts emerge and are about an inch high, reduce watering frequency to three to four times per week. Then cut back even more after that—essentially increasing dry time between each watering.
If you’ve brought in fresh sod instead of seeding, then water lightly two or three times daily until it’s rooted solidly in place—about two weeks or so. After that, follow the same guidelines as above, reducing sprinklers after a few weeks as needed.
Also, keep in mind where exactly you’re planting—each area will need varying levels of hydration depending on the amount of sunshine and wind exposure they see on any given day.
In general, though, if you measure moisture up to eight inches beneath the soil surface with a long screwdriver or garden trowel, the lawn should be getting enough H2O if it’s cool for around six hours before needing more replenishment. Just don’t overwater!