Grass thrives in healthy and moist soil. However, too much moisture caused by overwatering may be detrimental to their growth. A lot of water will hinder them from getting oxygen and suffocate. It also prevents grass from developing strong and deep roots. Overwatering grass puts your plants under stress, causing them to be more prone to diseases. Typically, most grasses need about ½ inch to 1 inch of water weekly. If you are unsure, be on the lookout for these signs of overwatering grass.
Discoloration
Water is necessary for grass to thrive. However, too much of it may strip away the nutrients in the soil. It often results in discoloration. If you notice your lawn looking yellow, it’s one of the signs of overwatering grass.
Discoloration may also mean that fungi are thriving on your lawn. You may notice this by the colorful growth on the grass blades. An overwatered lawn is ideal for fungus growth. A red-orange color in grass means that the lawn is overwatered and possibly stressed. The rust fungus causes this discoloration. Look out for mushrooms popping up in your garden. It is one of the clear signs of overwatering grass. Be mindful since these mushrooms can be hazardous to your family and your pets. Also, be careful not to resort immediately to using chemical fungicides as this may bring more danger to your garden and the organisms living in it. It is much advisable to prevent them from growing in the first place.
Spongey ground
If you are looking for signs of overwatering grass, try stepping on your lawn. In case your feet left an indentation, then you need to lessen the water supply. A squishy lawn means that your grassroots were not able to grow deep.
Water on top
Water on top of your soil is one of the apparent signs of overwatering grass. Grass can only accumulate the amount of water that they need. They will have trouble absorbing water out of their threshold. If you notice water running off, it is an indication that it isn’t penetrating your soil. Worse is, the runoff water can wash away the nutrients needed by your lawn to thrive.
Insect infestation
In connection with the previous sign, standing water can be a breeding ground for insects. If you start to notice bare patches of grass, there may be insects in your area. Insects like cutworms create irregular bare patches as they nibble on the base of your grass blades. Also, they prefer attacking weakened lawns. At the same time, grubs will feed on your roots leading to the wilting of grass.
Thatch too attached
Thatch is described to be this layer made up of partially decomposed plant materials. It may be good for your lawn since organisms in the soil break it down to provide nutrients. However, lots of thatch build-up are clear signs of overwatering grass. Organisms will not be able to break down thatch if there is too much water. Additionally, thatch tends to create a thick and heavy mat that will prevent oxygen from getting through your soil. Limited levels of oxygen reaching the roots may result in shallow root systems. If thatch is already building up, you may remove them using a mower or a rake.
Bugs around
In connection with the previous signs of overwatering grass, bugs’ presence indicates that you need to dial your watering down. A thick layer of thatch is a great hiding place for bugs. Why wouldn’t it be? It gives protection from predators and harsh sunlight.
Presence of weeds
There is nothing weeds love more than wet conditions. The main problem with weeds is as they thrive in overwatered lawns, they are likely to steal nutrients from other plants. Weeds can also form shallow rotted clumps that will quickly spread on the soil’s surface. Lastly, once the weeds grow tall and thick, they will also create shade, further inhibiting your grass from getting their needed sunlight. To prevent the weeds from causing damage, pull them up immediately and water infrequently. If you need moist soil, be sure to do it up to 8 inches deep only. Furthermore, it will promote weed growth.
Moderation is always the key, even in watering your lawn. For a healthy and clean-looking lawn, be mindful of your watering. Develop a watering schedule that you can accomplish. And to be sure, look for signs of overwatering the grass mentioned above.
