Watering early can save time. Most lawns need an inch of water a week to stay lush. Getting up before dawn to saturate the grass can help ensure that amount is achieved while conserving energy and keeping temperatures cooler.
3am is often considered too early because it can cause stress on the plants. If there’s dew on the grass, that’s enough hydration for the day, so additional watering will be wasted. Sunlight is also beneficial in evaporating excess moisture.
Rising before your neighbors also means increased noise levels like running a sprinkler or hose, which could bother them. An alternative solution is to water during midday when evaporation rates are higher, reducing waste caused by wind and runoff from sidewalks or driveways.
Though waking up at 3am doesn’t make sense for everyone, if you live in an area with strict water restrictions or have high levels of sun and heat, then getting up before dawn could pay off. One option is to install a timer system set for a late evening which allows for more control over specific amounts of moisture delivered to each irrigation zone in your yard.
Regardless of what time you decide to turn on your sprinklers, watering less frequently with larger amounts of water will help keep your lawn healthy while abiding by local regulations or aesthetic preferences.