Water slowly for better absorption. Aerate your lawn to help improve infiltration rate and prevent runoff from compacted areas. Raise the mower height one-half to one inch during the summer months.
Taller grass encourages deeper root growth to take advantage of the soil moisture.
Higher grass also provides more leaves to insulate the soil from heat and reduces evaporation. If you use a soaker hose, turn it so the holes are on the bottom to avoid evaporation. Fertilize your lawn at least twice a year to establish a grass with a water-efficient root system. During dry seasons, however, hold back on nitrogen fertilizers to keep plants from needing as much water. They are water gluttons.