Water deeply and infrequently to encourage deep roots

What to Do

When you do need to water, apply enough to wet the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches in a single session, then let it dry out before watering again. For most soils, this means applying about 1 inch of water per session.

Why It Works

Purdue Extension states clearly: daily, light irrigations promote shallow rooting, non-drought-hardy turf, and encourage crabgrass. Deep watering forces roots to chase moisture downward, creating a more resilient lawn. The soil should be wetted to the depth of the deepest root.

Tips

• In spring, one deep watering every 6-7 days is usually sufficient.
• Sandy soils drain faster and may need two lighter applications 3-4 days apart to achieve the same depth.
• Clay soils hold more water but absorb it slowly — water at a rate that avoids runoff.