Fall Lawn Watering Guide for DFW – Helpful Ways to Keep it Green

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Fall Lawn Watering Guide for DFW – Helpful Ways to Keep it Green

Fall Lawn Watering Guide for DFW – Helpful Ways to Keep it Green

DFW’s fall brings cooler temperatures and some rain, so now is the time to prepare Fall lawn watering. Lawns need water in the fall, but less than in summer. Watering in the fall helps your grass prepare for winter and keeps it healthy.

Here are some guidelines for fall lawn watering in DFW:

1. How Often to Water Lawn in Fall – Adjust Based on Weather

Water less often: As temperatures drop, your lawn will need less water. You can water your lawn once or twice a week in the fall. This is better than the daily or every-other-day schedule required often in summer. Check the weather and adjust. Fall rains may reduce the need for extra watering.

Use a rain gauge or smart irrigation system to track rainfall. If it rains enough, turn off your irrigation system. If it rains about 1 inch per week, you can skip watering that week.

2. Best Time to Water Grass in the Fall

Water in the early morning: In DFW, the best time to water your lawn is early morning. For best results, water between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m. This reduces evaporation and lets the soil absorb moisture before the day warms. Avoid late-day watering, as it can cause fungal growth from wet grass.

3. How Much to Water Lawn in the Fall & Watering Depth

Deep watering is more effective: Water deeply and less often. Soaking watering encourages deeper root growth. Your lawn flourishes, becoming more resilient to cold. A lusher, healthier lawn retains more moisture in dry spells. Aim to water enough so the soil is moist to a depth of 6-8 inches.

Use the “screwdriver test”: Push a screwdriver into the soil after watering. If it goes in without resistance, the water has penetrated deep enough. If not, your lawn may need more water.

4. Track Soil Moisture

Use a moisture meter: A soil moisture meter can help ensure your lawn gets the right amount of water. This will help you avoid over watering. It’s common in the fall for people to forget that cooler weather requires less watering.

Fall Lawn Watering Measure soil moisture

5. Adjust for Grass Type

Bermuda and Zoysia grasses: These warm-season grasses are common in DFW. They need less water in the fall as they begin to go dormant. Once dormancy sets in (usually in November), cut back on watering. Water once every 10 to 14 days, depending on rainfall.

Fescue and rye grass: Did you over seed with rye grass for a green winter lawn? It may need more water in the fall, especially after seeding. Water the over seeded areas with less water but more often until the seeds germinate.

6. Check for Local Water Restrictions

Follow local watering guidelines: Many DFW cities have water conservation rules, especially during droughts. These may limit the days or times you can water. Stay informed of local regulations is essential.

7. Wind Considerations

Avoid watering on windy days: Fall can bring breezy days to DFW. The wind can cause sprinkler systems to water unevenly or blow them away. Water on calm days to ensure that moisture reaches the roots of your grass.

8. Winter Transition

Prepare for winter dormancy: As late fall brings colder temperatures, your lawn, especially Bermuda grass, goes dormant. When the grass turns brown, you can water less. Water every couple of weeks or stop, depending on the rainfall.

In DFW, fall means less lawn watering. The temps cool, and rain becomes more frequent. Water your lawn once or twice a week in the morning, focusing on deep watering to promote root health. Keep an eye on rainfall and adjust your schedule as needed. This will help your lawn transition to winter dormancy while saving water. If you find foundation issues you have questions about, please contact us. We would love to help.