How Much Water Does a Lawn With Kentucky Bluegrass Use?

Kentucky bluegrass needs about 2 inches of water per week.

Because of its shallow root system and thirsty nature, Kentucky bluegrass requires more water than other types of lawns. Use efficient watering strategies to keep water use to a minimum.

New Lawns

Water new lawns frequently but lightly. Water two or three times daily for the first two weeks, then gradually reduce the frequency once the lawn germinates.

Amount

An established Kentucky bluegrass lawn needs about 2 inches of water a week during summer to keep it green, according to Agrilife Extension. If stressed by insufficient water in the heat of summer, the grass will go dormant.

Watering

Frequent light watering encourages shallow roots. Instead, water deeply to saturate the root zone. Use efficient watering methods that minimize evaporation, such as watering slowly to prevent runoff and watering to a depth of about 6 inches. Water early in the morning to avoid heat and evaporation; in some parts of the country, evening watering encourages diseases. Soaker hoses are more efficient than sprinklers that spray water into the air.

References

• Agrilife Extension: Kentucky Bluegrass
• University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources: Kentucky Bluegrass
• Iowa State University Extension: Kentucky Bluegrass Lawns