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Summer Watering Tips

Many people are experiencing brown or straw coloring on their lawns.
During this is not unusual. However, many people attempt to correct the
problem by increasing the amount of water they apply. This may lead to
wasting water without receiving benefits.

In some cases, improper or infrequent fertilization may be the culprit.
In the Rocky Mountain region, most lawns are comprised of cool- season
grasses. For cool-season grasses (Kentucky bluegrasses, fescues), it's
best to aerate and fertilize the lawn before the grass gets going in
April. If you choose to fertilize only once, feed in the fall - if
twice, then in spring and fall. If you desire a green lawn from spring
to fall, then fertilize four times per year, early spring, late spring,
late summer and mid-fall.

Another common problem is the manner in which water is being delivered
to your lawn. You may be missing spots. You may be watering during the
day when much of the water is evaporated. To conserve water and water
most efficiently, water uniformly, deeply and infrequently in the early
morning or evening hours. You may verify watering uniformity by
utilizing 4 to 6 flat-bottomed, straight-sided cans as gauges with a
ruler and a watch. Arrange the gauges at random distances away from any
sprinkler, but all within the area you assume is being covered. Run the
sprinkler for a specific time (pop-up spray heads 15 minutes, rotors –
30 minutes). Then measure the amount of water in each can, checking for
uniformity. Some variation is expected, but a difference of 10 percent
or more between any two gauges must be addressed by adjusting your
sprinkler coverage, or repairing the sprinkler heads.

Other problems may require the assistance of a professional. The Rocky
Mountain Sod Growers Association is comprised of experts who use science
and experience to provide quality advice concerning sod installation,
lawn care and water conservation.

For more information, please contact one of our members. 

Is Sod a Good Choice For Our Environment?

Absolutely. Sod cools and cleans the atmosphere by reflecting the sun’s heat and absorbing noises, carbon dioxide and other harmful pollutants. It releases valuable oxygen and moisture into the air we breathe. As it grows, sod silently contributes to a healthier environment.

Conserving water while maintaining a healthy lawn is easy if you consult the experts.  Don’t waste water – learn how to apply the appropriate amount of water, for your lawn type, by reviewing the information contained within this site.

Dr. Tony Koski, Extension Turf Specialist at Colorado State University.         Brent Mecham, Landscape Water Management & Conservation Specialist at Northern Colorado Water Conservation District.

What is the Rocky Mountain Sod Growers Association (RMSGA)?

RMSGA is committed to providing top quality service throughout the Rocky Mountain region.  Our members stay current on the latest scientific trends to ensure that our products remain beneficial to the environment while meeting the needs of our customers.

Members of the RMSGA believe that professional integrity, quality service, products, and cooperation are the key essentials to promoting the industry and supporting customers. 

Be sure to look for the RMSGA logo