Then let the lawn dry out thoroughly before watering again. The way to tell is when the color dulls and footprints stay compressed for more than a few seconds. Correct Thatch build-up. All grass forms a layer of dead plant material, known as thatch, between the grass blades and the soil. When thatch gets deeper than inch, it prevents water and nutrients from penetrating to the soil and grass roots.
Some grasses tend to form a thick layer of thatch.
Overuse of fertilizer can also create a heavy layer of thatch. You can reduce thatch by raking or using a machine that slices through the thatch layer to break it up. Sprinkling a thin layer of topsoil or compost over the lawn will also help. In a healthy lawn, microorganisms and earthworms help keep the thatch layer in balance by decomposing it and releasing the nutrients into the soil. Organic fertilizers also help break down thatch naturally.