How to Water Your Lawn in Hot Weather Without Wasting a Drop
Smart tips to keep your grass healthy through the summer heat
When temperatures rise, most lawns feel the stress long before homeowners do. You might see brown patches, thinning grass, or wilting blades—but more water isn’t always the answer.
In Fairport, Penfield, and Webster, NY, hot weather doesn’t just dry out your lawn—it also challenges how and when you water. Done right, watering can restore your yard’s health and color. Done wrong, it can waste water, promote shallow roots, or even lead to fungus.
So, how do you give your lawn what it needs without overdoing it?
The Best Time to Water Your Lawn
Early morning is best. Aim for between 5 a.m. and 9 a.m.
Watering early allows moisture to soak in before the sun evaporates it.
Avoid evening watering, which leaves grass wet overnight and can promote mold or disease.
Midday watering is least effective—most of it will evaporate before reaching the roots.
How Much Water Is Enough?
Most lawns need about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week, including rainfall.
This encourages deeper roots that can handle heat better.
Water deeply a few times a week instead of shallow watering daily.
Use a rain gauge or empty tuna can to measure how much water your lawn actually gets.
Pro tip: If your footprints stay visible after walking on your grass, it’s likely too dry.
Signs You’re Overwatering
More isn’t always better—especially when the roots can’t absorb it all.
Watch for:
Mushy or soggy soil
Fungal growth or mushrooms
Excessive weed growth
A spongy feeling underfoot
Overwatering can actually weaken your lawn by encouraging shallow roots and creating the perfect environment for disease.
Summer Lawn Care Beyond Watering
Even great watering habits won’t fix a lawn that’s struggling from other issues.
Mow high – taller grass holds moisture better
Keep blades sharp – dull mower blades tear grass, causing stress
Avoid fertilizing during heatwaves – it can burn your lawn
Remove thatch and debris – improves water penetration
The goal is to give your lawn the best chance to stay healthy during heat—not just survive it.
10X Lawn and Landscape is here to care for your lawn the way it needs to be cared for—with expert mowing, bed maintenance, and seasonal service that supports your yard all year long.
We help homeowners in Fairport, Penfield, and Webster keep their lawns healthy—without the guesswork.
