2021 Lawn & Watering Tips

Like many other men, I handle the lawn care at our house, and have really gotten into having a great yard. To have a thick, green lawn you must start with quality seed and fertilizer.  I purchase these products locally from Schubert’s Sod Depot and  fertilize once a month all summer long.


WATERING - I find that watering less frequently, but for longer periods of time is a better way to promote healthy root growth. This method forces the roots to grow deeper to reach the water in the soil and help to keep up the oxygen levels in the soil. If I start to see the grass getting dry I will do extra hand watering or up the irrigation time, especially during really hot and dry times. 


FERTILIZE − Fertilize mid-spring, early fall and late fall, at a minimum, to sustain steady growth throughout the year. I personally try to fertilize once a month during the growing season. Remember to water after application to avoid burning. − Use a fertilizer with nitrogen; both traditional and organic types work.  Schubert’s 20-20-10 mixture works great for me. − Avoid weed-and-feed formulas to prevent damage to nearby trees and shrubs. Pull or spot spray weeds instead.

  
MOW − Use your mower’s higher settings to promote healthy root growth and preserve moisture in the grass. − Mow frequently enough so you only remove 1/3 of the grass blade to prevent stress (1-2 times per week). - I don't recommend mulching as I find that it clogges the lawn with clippings and hinders growth. Fertilizing should provide all the nutrients your lawn needs. − Keep your mower's blade sharp for a clean cut. If you see tearing on the top of the grass it is time to sharpen. − Mow when the grass blades are dry to help prevent disease and not bog down your mower.
 
CORE AERATE − I choose not to aerate, as I do not find it necessary for my yard, but if you do - Core aerate once or twice per year in spring or fall to provide oxygen to the soil and encourage deeper roots. − Water thoroughly 24-48 hours before aerating. − Apply grass seed to thin areas after core aerating. − Avoid power raking.
 

That gives you a good start, then for those of us under the rule of COS utilities there are these Water-Wise Rules to help keep us in line. 

 
6 Key Water-wise Rules for lawns with sprinkler systems:

• You may water up to three days a week. You choose the days.
• In warmer weather (May 1-Oct. 15) only water before 10 a.m. or after 6 p.m. to reduce evaporation.
• Don't let water pool on hard surfaces or flow down gutters.
• Repair leaking sprinkler systems within 10 days.
• Use a shut-off nozzle when washing anything with a hose.
• Clean hard surfaces (i.e. driveways, sidewalks and patios) with water only if there is a public health and safety concern.

 
Trees, Shrubs, Flower and Vegetable Watering Guidelines:
Watering is allowed any time with a drip irrigation system, handheld hose with a shutoff nozzle or other handheld watering container.
 
Enforcement:
COS Utilities states that their priority is education and helping customers find success with the new rules. However, customers who violate the rules may be fined $100.
 
Visit csu.org for more water-wise information, including irrigation rebates and instructional videos.