An unusually hot stretch of weather in Davie County→ and surrounding areas can catch homeowners off guard—especially this early in the season. While summer may not officially be here yet, your lawn can still experience drought stress if you’re not prepared.
Cool-season lawns like fescue are particularly vulnerable right now, while Bermuda lawns will actually benefit from the heat as they begin to break dormancy. Knowing how to properly water during these conditions is key to keeping your lawn healthy.
Watch for Signs of Stress
As temperatures rise, your lawn will tell you when it needs help. Look for these early warning signs of heat or drought stress:
- Curled or folded grass blades
- A bluish-gray tint to the lawn
- Footprints that remain visible long after walking
If you notice these symptoms, it’s time to adjust your watering schedule and reduce foot traffic to allow the turf to recover.
How Much Water Does Your Lawn Need?
Most lawns in our area require about 1 inch of water per week, including rainfall.
The key is to water deeply and infrequently. This encourages deeper root growth, making your lawn more resilient during hot, dry periods. Shallow, frequent watering leads to weak root systems and increased stress during heat waves.
How to Calculate Your Watering Time
Not all irrigation systems are the same, so it’s important to measure how much water your lawn is actually receiving.
Simple Watering Test:
- Place small containers (tuna cans or plastic cups) around your lawn
- Run your sprinkler or irrigation system for 20 minutes
- Measure the water collected
Example:
- If you collect ¼ inch in 20 minutes, you’ll need:
- 1 hour and 20 minutes total per week to reach 1 inch
- Split into two 40-minute watering sessions
This method ensures your lawn gets exactly what it needs—no guesswork.
Cool-Season vs. Warm-Season Lawns
Fescue Lawns (Cool-Season)
- More prone to drought stress during early heat
- Require consistent, deep watering
- Avoid unnecessary traffic during hot afternoons
Bermuda Lawns (Warm-Season)
- Will begin greening up faster during warm weather
- Less sensitive to short dry periods
- Still benefit from proper watering as growth ramps up
Timing Matters
For best results:
- Water early in the morning (before 10 AM)
- Avoid evening watering to reduce disease risk
- Adjust based on rainfall and temperature swings
Why Proper Lawn Care Matters During Stress
Watering is just one piece of the puzzle. A properly maintained lawn is far more resilient to heat and drought.
That’s why pairing good watering practices with a professional fertilization and weed control program is essential. Healthy turf with balanced nutrients and minimal weed competition can better withstand environmental stress.
Learn more about our Fertilization and Weed Control Programs →
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