Overview

St. Augustine grass is a popular choice for lawns in warm, humid climates. Proper watering is crucial for establishing and maintaining a healthy lawn, especially when the grass is newly planted. In this article, we will discuss how often you should water newly planted St. Augustine grass to ensure it thrives.

Initial Watering

After planting St. Augustine grass, the first watering is the most critical. It should be deep enough to moisten the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches. Water the lawn lightly after planting and then let it dry to a depth of 2-3 inches before the next watering. This allows the roots to grow deeper to reach the water source. This initial watering should be done once a day for the first week or two.

Established Lawn

Once your St. Augustine grass is established, you can reduce the frequency of watering. The frequency of watering will depend on the climate and the soil type. In general, St. Augustine grass needs to be watered 1-2 times per week. In hot, dry weather, more frequent watering may be necessary. However, overwatering can cause root rot and fungal diseases, so be mindful of how much water your lawn is receiving.

Watering Depth

When watering your St. Augustine grass, it's important to ensure the water penetrates deep enough to reach the roots. Shallow watering can lead to shallow root growth, which can make the grass more susceptible to drought and other issues. A good rule of thumb is to water to a depth of 6-8 inches, which is about the length of a screwdriver or a tent spike. Use a rain gauge to measure the amount of water your lawn is receiving to prevent over or under watering.

Best Time to Water

The best time to water your St. Augustine grass is early in the morning when the temperatures are cooler and the sun is not as intense. Watering in the afternoon or evening can lead to fungal diseases and other issues. Watering at night is also not recommended because the grass stays wet for a prolonged period, which can lead to fungal growth. Early morning watering allows the grass to dry during the day, preventing fungus and disease growth.

Conclusion

Proper watering is essential for establishing and maintaining a healthy St. Augustine grass lawn. Newly planted grass requires more frequent watering to establish deep roots, while established lawns typically need 1-2 waterings per week. The amount and frequency of watering will depend on the climate and soil type. So be sure to monitor the soil moisture level and adjust the watering schedule accordingly. With the right amount of water, your St. Augustine grass can thrive and produce a lush, green lawn for many years to come.