06/01/2026
Good guidance from Iowa State for watering turf. The Stage 2 voluntary 50% reduction in lawn watering remains in place.
Iowa State University Extension and Outreach provides tips for watering homes lawns ➡️ https://yardandgarden.extension.iastate.edu/how-to/watering-home-lawns
May 31, 2026
💧 Did you know? Most lawns in Iowa only need about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week to remain healthy.
The professionals advise -
Lawn Care During Hot, Dry Weather:
You have two options:
1️⃣Let your lawn go dormant (brown) until cooler, wetter weather returns.
2️⃣Water to maintain a green, actively growing lawn.
💧 If you choose to water:
✅Most Iowa lawns need only 1–1.5 inches of water per week.
✅Apply that amount in one deep watering or two waterings spaced 3–4 days apart.
✅Avoid frequent, light watering—it encourages shallow roots and reduces drought tolerance.
✅Water only when your lawn shows signs of stress, such as a bluish-green color or footprints that remain visible after walking across the grass.
✅Water early in the morning (5–9 a.m.) for the best results and least water loss.
🌾 If you choose dormancy:
✅Dormancy is a natural survival mechanism for cool-season grasses.
✅Dormant lawns can typically withstand 4–6 weeks of dry conditions.
✅After 4–6 weeks, apply 1–1.5 inches of water and repeat 7 days later to help the lawn recover.
💧Healthy lawns and wise watering practices help conserve our region's drinking water supply. 💙
