Ahh, winter. Where the mornings are crisp, the ugg boots are toasty warm, and your lawn is? Well…probably not looking its lush, green best. So what does that mean for your watering routine? Should you be dragging the hose out in the middle of June and July? For the answers to these common questions and more, read on.
Winter = Nap Time for Your Lawn
First things first – if you’ve got a warm-season grass variety like Sir Walter DNA Certified Buffalo, TifTuf Bermuda, Eureka Premium Kikuyu, Nullarbor Couch or Sir Grange Zoysia, then your lawn is likely having a well-earned rest over winter. That golden hue isn’t a sign of neglect – it’s just your turf going into dormancy to conserve energy for spring.
It’s kind of like hibernation, but for grass. And it’s a good thing.
So if your grass starts losing some of its vibrant green colour it doesn’t mean your lawn is dead; it’s simply gone into its winter rest state to conserve moisture and nutrients until warmer temperatures return.
So… do I still need to water?
Short answer? Not much – and maybe not at all.
In most parts of Victoria and southern NSW, your winter rainfall is usually enough to keep your lawn hydrated through the cooler months. In fact, watering too often in winter can do more harm than good – think soggy roots, fungal problems and unhappy soil.
But, if it’s been a few dry weeks, and your lawn’s looking a little too sad for your liking, a deep drink might be just what it needs.
The best way to know is to keep an eye out for:
- Footprints that linger longer than your morning coffee
- Blades that look dry, curled or a bit brittle
- Soil that’s cracked or pulling away at the edges
These are little hints your turf could use a top-up.
How to water smart in winter
If you do need to give your lawn a winter drink, here’s how to do it right:
Go deep, not often: One deep watering every 4 weeks (if needed) is better than lots of little splashes.
Pick your timing: Watering your lawn is best done in the morning to give the roots more time to absorb the water in a fresh and healthy way. Watering at night can lead to fungal growth and disease in your thatch layer and may result in additional frost damage.
Let the rain do its thing: Check your local forecast – Mother Nature might just beat you to it.
It’s all about balance
We get it – you want to do right by your lawn. But during winter, sometimes the best thing you can do is just let it be. Save the big lawn love for spring when your grass is ready to grow and your mower’s raring to go.
At Coolabah Turf we know a thing or two about taking care of dormant winter turf. For more tips and tricks to get your lawn through the colder months, and right across the year, check out our online Lawn Care guides – they’re packed with down-to-earth advice to help you keep your patch happy, healthy and looking schmick all year round.
If you want personalised advice get in touch with our team or give us a buzz on 1800 055 515.
