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Watering the garden shot
Looking for the best year-round lawn watering schedule? We’re sharing advice to help keep your lawn lush and healthy in every season.

 

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment. Always store products out of the reach of children and pets.

Watering your lawn in summer

In the sunny days of summer, our lawns become a hub of activity. With increased foot traffic, it's essential to keep our grass well-watered and healthy. You can easily gauge your lawn's hydration needs by doing a simple footprint test. If your footsteps leave noticeable imprints, it's time to water. However, if the grass bounces back, it's well-hydrated.

If you have buffalo grass, keep the water frequency the same during hot weather, but consider increasing the amount of water applied during each watering.

Tip: By giving your lawn the right care, it will remain resilient and lush for you and your loved ones to enjoy all summer.

Winter lawn watering care

Watering your lawn in autumn

As the leaves begin to fall and autumn arrives, pay close attention to watering, especially in the temperate regions of Australia. In places like Perth and Adelaide, the early days of autumn can be surprisingly hot, making proper irrigation essential. Ensure your sprinkler system is in good working order to effectively quench your lawn's thirst.

For optimal root growth and to cultivate a strong, healthy lawn before winter arrives, water deeply two to three times a week during dry periods. Watch for signs of drought stress, such as dull grass blades, and adjust your watering accordingly. Water twice a week early in the morning for about 15 minutes to ensure efficient moisture absorption, considering your water sprinkler system's flow rate. This encourages robust root development as the season transitions.

Buffalo grass requires watering once a month during autumn, preferably in the morning to minimise the risk of fungal disease. However, established couch and kikuyu lawns generally need little to no watering, except during extreme weather conditions.

Tip: By tending to your lawn's watering needs in the autumn, you'll prepare it for a healthy, resilient winter season.

Spring lawn watering care

Watering your lawn in winter

During the winter, your lawn generally requires minimal watering. If you notice signs of water stress or dryness, give it a deep watering once a month. Adjust your watering based on grass type. Buffalo grass typically needs little watering during winter; water it only if it appears water-stressed or dry and opt for a deep watering once a month if needed. In regions with heavy rainfall, additional watering may not be necessary. For couch grass, water about twice a month in winter. Avoid excessive watering and stick to the lawn watering schedule to prevent negative effects on your lawn's health.

In tropical regions of Australia, kikuyu grass may not need watering during winter unless there is an extended dry spell. If necessary, water early in the morning or in the evening as the sun goes down. Perennial ryegrass is content with natural rainfall during this season. If your area experiences decent rainfall, you may not need to provide additional watering for your lawn.

Tip: The best time for watering your lawn is early in the morning, as it minimises water evaporation and also reduces the risk of fungal diseases.

Summer lawn watering care

Watering your lawn in spring

In spring, your lawn usually requires minimal additional watering, thanks to natural rainfall. (This obviously depends on your soil, grass, and location.) If you encounter dry spells, you can increase watering, but take a minimalist approach to foster a healthier lawn with stronger, deeper roots.

For cooler climates with sufficient air and overnight moisture, fescue grass usually requires infrequent watering. Water sparingly on mild days without frost. In most parts of Australia, you can reduce watering frequency for buffalo grass during spring. If necessary, water early in the morning instead of the afternoon or evening.

The best practice for couch grass is to water once a week. If your area experiences heavy rainfall, you may not need to water your lawn as often. Water kikuyu grass every seven to 10 days or whenever signs of moisture stress appear. Adjust watering based on the lawn's needs and weather conditions.

Tip: Providing the right amount of water will help your grass thrive and create a healthy, vibrant lawn in spring.

Autumn lawn watering care

Keep your lawn thriving

Check out our guide on how to choose the right lawn fertiliser.

Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.