You may also want to calibrate your sprinkler system to determine how much water your system is applying in a given amount of time. We often over- or under-water our lawns without knowing it. Calibration is an easy process that can be done by anyone.

Step 1: Set out containers

Gather 5–10 coffee cans, tuna cans, jars, or other straight-sided containers. Containers that are 3 to 6 inches in diameter work best.

• If you have an in-ground system: Place the containers in one zone at a time. Scatter the cans randomly throughout the zone (you’ll need to repeat this procedure in each zone).
• If you use a hose-end sprinkler to water your turf: Place the containers in a straight line from the sprinkler to the edge of the watering pattern. Space the containers evenly.

Step 2: Run the water

• Turn the water on for fifteen minutes.

Step 3: Measure and calculate

• Use a ruler to measure the depth of water in each container (you can round to the nearest 1/8 of an inch). Find the average depth by adding up the depths and dividing by the number of containers. To determine the irrigation rate in inches per hour, multiply the average depth by four.
  • Average Depth (in.) = Total Depth / # of containers
  • Irrigation Rate (inches per hour) = Average Depth x 4
• Now that you know your sprinkler system irrigation rate, you can apply water to your turf more efficiently. For example, if your system applies water at 2 inches per hour (or ½ inch per fifteen minutes) and your grass needs up to ¾ inch of water, you would run your sprinklers for about 23 minutes.

Regular irrigation system maintenance will save you money on water bills, too!

Time It Right

The early morning hours take center stage as the best time to water your lawn. Watering during the day leads to unnecessary water loss due to excessive evaporation. Late-morning watering can be detrimental if it extends the time your lawn stays naturally wet from dew. This prolonged “dew period” can accelerate disease occurrence. Let’s avoid that drama!

Uniformity Is Key

Make sure your sprinklers are playing their part correctly. Some counties in Florida require licensed irrigation system installers, while others have minimal regulations. This can lead to shoddy installations, resulting in water waste and uneven coverage across your turf. Insufficient water distribution can cause dry spots and all the problems associated with drought-stressed turf.

PRO-TRICK: To check the uniformity of your system, place small, straight-sided cans in a line from your sprinkler to the edge of the watering pattern. Run the system for 15 minutes and check if each can has roughly the same amount of water.

Keep Your Sprinklers in Check

Regularly inspecting your sprinklers is vital, even with a professionally installed system. If a sprinkler head becomes off-center, clogged, damaged, or starts leaking, it can disrupt your coverage. You’ll also want to ensure that valves open and close correctly.

During each visit, our technicians look for problem areas that may have been caused by improper irrigation practices. We will always let customers know if we see irrigation-related issues. We also offer sprinkler assessments for a fee — just give us a call.

Consider Other Factors

Every lawn is unique. Areas close to trees or large shrubs will experience shade for part of the day, and some mature tree canopies may shade a section all day. In such cases, you may need to reduce irrigation in those specific areas.

Soil conditions also play a role:

• Sandy soils dry out faster than those with more clay content, requiring more frequent irrigation.
• Many urban soils are compacted. This hinders water penetration and may result in waterlogged conditions or standing water.

Follow the Local Guidelines

It’s essential to stay informed about the outdoor irrigation restrictions in your community. These restrictions may change depending on the season and aim to conserve water.

Recommended Mowing Length: ¾ to 1.5 inches. (PRO TIP: A reel mower is the preferred mower for this fine-textured grass.)

Mowing Frequency: We recommend mowing every 5–7 days during the growing season. The exact frequency may vary depending on weather conditions, nutrient availability, and desired lawn appearance.

Recommended Irrigation: ½–¾ inch for each application. (PRO TIP: To see how your sprinklers are measuring up, put a cup out while you run your sprinklers, then measure the amount of water.)

Fascinating Fact

Bermuda grass thrives in hot climates and is incredibly resilient. It can withstand heavy foot traffic, making it ideal for active outdoor spaces like sports fields and backyard play areas.

Top Things to Avoid

1. Overwatering: Bermuda grass is drought-tolerant. It can be negatively affected by too much moisture.
2. Improper Mowing: Avoid cutting Bermuda grass too short! This can weaken the turf and make it more susceptible to stress, weed invasion, and disease. Mowing too low can scalp the grass and inhibit its ability to photosynthesize and recover.
3. Ignoring Pest Control: Stay vigilant against pests that can negatively impact Bermuda grass. Regularly inspect your lawn for signs of pests such as grubs or chinch bugs.

Bermuda grass is highly resilient to foot traffic and heavy use. This makes it suitable for high-activity areas such as sports fields, parks, and backyard play areas. It recovers quickly from damage, thanks to its vigorous growth and ability to spread and fill in bare patches.

For that perfectly manicured Bermuda lawn, mow it low and often. Regular mowing promotes density, discourages weed growth, and ensures your lawn remains the star attraction all summer.

Recommended Mowing Length: 1.5 to 2.5 inches

Mowing Frequency: Mow every 7 to 10 days during the growing season.

Proper Irrigation: Water deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth. Provide the grass with about 1 inch of water per week, either through rainfall or irrigation. Avoid frequent light watering! This promotes shallow root development and makes the grass more susceptible to stress.

Fascinating Fact

Zoysia grass is known for its exceptional drought tolerance and resilience. It forms a dense, lush carpet that feels like walking on a cushion — perfect for creating a picture-perfect lawn with a touch of elegance.

Top Things to Avoid

1. Overwatering: Zoysia grass has good drought tolerance and can be damaged by excessive watering. Maintain a proper watering schedule based on the grass’s needs and local conditions.
2. Heavy Traffic: While Zoysia can withstand foot traffic, excessive or constant heavy traffic can still cause wear and tear. Avoid placing heavy objects or repeatedly walking or driving over the same area to prevent compaction and damage.
3. Mowing Too Short: This can weaken the grass and make it more susceptible to stress, weed growth, and disease. Follow the recommended mowing heights and avoid cutting more than one-third of the grass blade at a time.
4. Shaded Areas: Zoysia performs best in full sun. In heavily shaded areas it may struggle and develop thin or patchy growth. Consider grass types better suited to shade.

To maintain Zoysia’s plush appearance, mow it slightly higher than Bermuda grass. This encourages deeper root growth, enhances its natural tolerance to pests and diseases, and creates a visually stunning lawn that will make your neighbors green with envy.

Recommended Mowing Length: 4 to 4.5 inches

Proper Irrigation:

1. For Established Lawns: St. Augustine is best watered on an as-needed basis. Apply approximately ½ inch of water per irrigation session. This amount should penetrate the soil to a depth of 4 to 6 inches.
2. Time of Day: Water early in the morning, preferably between 4 am and 8 am. This allows the grass to dry before evening, reducing the risk of disease.
3. Seasonal Adjustments: During cooler months or periods of reduced rainfall, you may need to water less frequently. In hot and dry periods, you may need to water more often.

Fascinating Fact

St. Augustine grass thrives in warm and humid coastal regions. It’s known for its thick, broad blades that create a luxurious, inviting look, and it’s a popular choice for coastal lawns thanks to its ability to withstand salt spray and sandy soils.

Top Things to Avoid

1. Mowing Too Short: It can stress the grass and make it more vulnerable to pests, diseases, and weed invasion. Maintain the recommended height and avoid removing more than one-third of the blade at a time.
2. Heavy Traffic: St. Augustine is sensitive to heavy foot traffic, especially when the soil is wet or compacted. Avoid excessive or constant traffic to prevent compaction and damage.

Embrace St. Augustine’s laid-back charm by mowing it at a higher length. This helps retain soil moisture, minimizes weed competition, and maintains its vibrant green color. With a little extra height, your St. Augustine lawn will radiate a relaxed, beachy vibe.

Remember, these mowing lengths are guidelines — adapt them based on your grass’s growth and specific lawn conditions. Keep nurturing your lawn with proper watering, fertilization, and regular maintenance, and it will reward you with a breathtaking green oasis.