Maintaining a Lush Lawn in Houston's Drought: Smart Watering Tips
The Greater Houston area is known for its hot and humid climate, which can be tough on your lawn, especially during drought conditions. Keeping your grass healthy and vibrant requires a well-thought-out strategy, particularly when water is scarce. In this article, we'll explore some essential tips to prevent your grass from dying during droughts and provide valuable insights on efficient watering practices.
Choose Drought-Tolerant Grass Varieties
Start by selecting grass varieties that are well-suited to Houston's climate. Warm-season grasses like Bermuda, Zoysia, and St. Augustine tend to be more drought-resistant and can better withstand the region's challenging weather conditions.
Maintain Proper Lawn Height
Keep your lawn mowed at an appropriate height to promote healthier grass. Taller grass shades the soil, reducing water evaporation and preventing weed growth. However, avoid cutting more than one-third of the grass height in a single mowing to prevent stress on the lawn.
Watering Techniques
Effective watering is crucial during a drought. Early Morning Watering could be your savor. Water your lawn early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow the grass to absorb moisture before the heat of the day.
Here's some other options when it comes to watering your lawn:
Deep and Infrequent Watering: Instead of frequent shallow watering, give your lawn a deep soak. This encourages deep root growth, making your grass more resilient to drought conditions. Water your lawn about 1 inch per week, preferably in one or two watering sessions.
Use a Soaker Hose or Drip Irrigation: These methods minimize water wastage by delivering moisture directly to the root zone, reducing evaporation and runoff.
Mulch Around Trees and Shrubs: Apply mulch around trees and shrubs to retain soil moisture and reduce competition for water from surrounding plants.