A Complete Guide To Lawn Irrigation Systems

Lawn irrigation is simply the process of getting your grass the water it needs. A healthy lawn keeps the HOA at bay and is a badge of honor. If you ask ten different people how to water your lawn, though, you’ll get ten different answers. So, here are  the basics to get you started.

There are three primary methods for irrigating your lawn:

In-Ground Sprinkler System

Some people also call these pop-up sprinklers or automatic sprinklers. The piping for these systems is located underground. And the sprinkler heads are flush with the ground when not operating. When the water turns on, the water pressure pops up the head and waters the lawn.

There are many different types of heads for all purposes. These systems are automatically controlled with an electronic controller and solenoid valves.

Above Ground Sprinkler Systems

Not everyone needs or can afford an in-ground sprinkler system. A simpler and cheaper alternative is to use a garden hose with a rotating or oscillating sprinkler.

The downside to above ground sprinklers is that you need to move them when it’s time to mow the grass. However, certain Bluetooth technology will allow you to control the devices with your phone.

Manual Irrigation

You can  put a sprinkler head on your hose, and do it the old-fashioned way.

The cost of watering your lawn depends on the cost of water in your region, how much grass you have and how much water you use. On average, watering a lawn costs from $50 to $150 per month.

A typical in-ground irrigation system costs from $1,500 to $3,000.

Most lawns need one to one and a half inches of water a week. Butever water your lawn every day. If you water your lawn too frequently, you’ll create a shallow root system. Since water will always be at the top surface, the roots will never need to grow deeper to reach the water.

The best time to water your grass is between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m. Watering your grass mid-day causes the moisture to evaporate before getting into the soil. On the other hand, watering your grass at night will cause it to pool, increasing the chance of lawn diseases.

New lawns will require more water than an established lawn.Use a rain gauge to avoid overwatering your lawn. For example, if you get over one and a half inches of rain in a week, you don’t need to water your grass that week.

Finally, listen to your grass. Despite all your efforts, it’s possible your lawn still won’t get enough water. Your grass blades will let you know when they need more water, though. Curled or bent tips indicate grass that needs more moisture. Plus, footprints or wheel tracks that stay for a long period of time can indicate thirsty grass. Well-hydrated grass will pop back into position leaving no tracks.

1. Determine What Kind of Grass You Have

Different types of grass have different water demands. Grasses generally fall into two categories: cool-season grasses and warm-season grasses. Cool-season grasses are less water efficient and require more frequent watering.

2. Determine What Kind of Soil You Have

Knowing your soil type is another important element for creating your irrigation schedule.

Clay Soil

Clay soil absorbs water slowly. However, it also releases water slowly. This allows your grass to absorb more of the water you distribute. Since it absorbs water slowly, you’re more likely to waste water to runoff. Runoff occurs when water runs into your driveway or the street instead of being absorbed into the soil.

Lawns with clay soil should be watered once a week. You’ll need to break your watering time into two or three intervals to make sure the soil has time to absorb the water.

Sandy Soil

Sandy soil doesn’t hold water well. It needs more frequent watering to keep the grass hydrated. Lawns with sandy soil should be watered three times a week.

Loam

Loam is the traditional brown soft soil. It’s great for grass because it absorbs and holds water well. Loamy soil should be watered twice a week.

3. Determine How Long It Takes Your Sprinkler to Distribute an Inch of Water

You can do this with any tuna can, as they are one inch in size. Turn on your sprinkler system, and calculate the time it takes to fill up. Alternatively, you can fill it up halfway and double the time. This is important so you know how long to water your lawn.

4. Compile Information

Finally, put all the information together to create the perfect irrigation schedule for your lawn.

Pros

• You’ll have photograph-ready, healthy grass.
• You’ll keep the HOA and neighbors happy.
• An irrigated lawn will up the curb appeal if you sell your home.
• It will reduce erosion and standing water around your foundation.

Cons

• There can be a negative environmental impact from using too much water.
• Your water bill may go up.
• Healthier grass needs to be cut more often.