Watering Suggestions

Watering Suggestions

IMPORTANT: These are absolute minimum watering guidelines. The first 2 weeks after any service are CRUCIAL—proper watering can mean the difference between success and failure.

Every property is different based on sun exposure, slope, soil condition, irrigation systems, and weather. You must monitor and adjust accordingly.


1. Lawn Mowing

No special watering is required immediately after mowing.
However, maintaining healthy turf requires 1 inch of water per week during the growing season.

2. Lawn Fertilizer Applications

Our fertilizers are slow-release and must be watered in to activate.

  • After application: Lightly water within 24 hours.

  • Ongoing: Resume your normal schedule of 1 inch/week minimum.

  • Avoid heavy soaking that may cause runoff.


3. Lawn Weed Control Applications

We often apply pre-emergent and post-emergent products at the same time, so follow this combined guidance:

  • Do NOT water or mow for at least 12 hours. This allows the post-emergent herbicide to fully absorb into targeted weeds.

  • After 12 hours: Water lightly within 1–2 days to activate the pre-emergent barrier.

  • Resume your regular watering schedule after 2–3 days.

⚠️ If we applied fertilizer AND weed control, you can follow instructions above at #2 Lawn Fertilizer Applications. This section is only meant to be for those who have the entire lawn blanket sprayed/treated for weeds.


4. Core Aeration & Seeding

This is the most water-dependent service we offer. If you fail to water properly, seed will not germinate or establish.

Watering Program:
  • Day of Service: Water for 10–15 minutes to moisten soil and settle seed.

  • Weeks 1–2: Water twice daily (morning and early evening) for 10–15 minutes. Do not skip days.

  • Weeks 3–4: Cut back to once daily, early morning only.

  • Weeks 5–6: Water 3–4x/week, delivering 1 inch/week total.

  • Week 7+: Resume standard turf watering of 1 inch/week.

🚫 Avoid mowing until grass reaches 4 inches in height.


5. Turf Soil Optimizer (CarbonPro-G)

This granular application boosts microbial activity and soil structure.

  • Water in lightly within 24 hours, or allow rainfall to do the job.

  • Return to your regular watering schedule (1 inch/week).

  • No overwatering necessary—this is not a fertilizer.


6. Turf Fungicide Treatment

We offer two types of treatment—each with different watering needs:

Preventative Fungicide (Granular):
  • YES—light watering within 24 hours is required to activate the product.

  • Resume your regular schedule thereafter.

Curative Fungicide (Liquid):
  • DO NOT water for at least 24 hours.

  • Let the solution sit undisturbed to attack active fungal infections.

🧪 We’ll tell you which was applied. Follow-up treatments may be recommended based on conditions.


7. Annual Flowers Installation

Annuals are fragile and water-sensitive—early care is non-negotiable.

Watering Program:
  • Weeks 1–2: Water daily, 1 to 3 times per day depending on temperature and exposure.

  • Weeks 3–4: Back off to once daily.

  • Weeks 5+: Water 3 times per week minimum, or more during dry/hot spells.

🌼 Water early in the morning or late afternoon. Avoid midday heat.


8. Sod Installation (Tall Fescue)

Fresh sod must never dry out during its first 2 weeks. If it dries, it dies.

Watering Program:
  • Days 1–7: Water 2–4 times per day to keep sod constantly moist.

  • Days 8–21: Water 1–2x per day, transitioning to once daily by week 3.

  • Week 4+: Water 1 inch per week, early mornings only.

Test Moisture: Lift a corner—soil beneath should be damp 2–3 inches deep.

Mowing Rule: Cut when grass reaches 4 inches (if maintaining at 3"). Use sharp blades and avoid scalping.


9. Trees & Shrubs

Applies to newly installed plants. Established trees and shrubs may need less frequent watering.

Frequency:
  • Shrubs/Perennials: 3x per week minimum

  • Trees: 1x per week minimum

Volume:
  • Shrubs:

    • 1-gal pot = ½ gallon (30 sec)

    • 3-gal pot = 1.5 gallons (1 min 30 sec)

    • 5-gal pot = 2.5 gallons (2 min 30 sec)

  • Trees:

    • 2 gallons per foot of height (e.g., 6 ft = 12 gallons).

    • Water slowly at the base, not over the foliage.

🌳 Use a watering wand or soaker hose. Water early morning or early evening. No sprinklers.


10. Compost Top-Dressing

Compost top-dressing is most effective when paired with aeration and seeding, but even on its own, it enhances soil health, nutrient cycling, and water retention. Proper watering ensures the compost integrates into the soil and supports germination if seed is applied.

Watering Program:

  • Day of Service: Lightly water to help the compost settle into aeration holes and soil surface.

  • Weeks 1–2: Water once daily, preferably in the morning, to keep soil consistently moist (not soggy).

  • Weeks 3+: Resume your standard lawn watering schedule of 1 inch per week (rainfall + irrigation combined).

🚫 Avoid overwatering — compost already helps the soil hold moisture. Too much water can lead to runoff or soggy conditions that stress turf.

Questions?

Visit our Watering FAQs or contact us directly. Our success depends on your watering commitment.

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