Mow your lawn when it is dry so clippings can filter down to the soil without clumping. If grass was unusually tall, you are left with a thick mass of clippings, rake the excess and compost or use the clippings as a mulch. Mulching lawn mowers are recommended but are not required. Taller mowing and proper fertilization result in a deep and efficient root system that reduces the need for extra water. The best time to water is early morning.
Less water is lost by evaporation.
Lawns watered too frequently tend to develop shallow root systems. Tightly compacted soils should be core aerified. Cores of soil about the size of an index finger are removed mechanically to loosen the soil and permit greater movement of water, fertilizer and air. Core aerifying increases decomposition of the grass clippings and enhances deep root growth. This publication is distributed in electronic format only.