What is an important aspect of turf management during dry periods?

Watering deeply but less frequently is a crucial aspect of turf management during dry periods. This method encourages deeper root growth and improves the resilience of the turfgrass to drought conditions. When water is applied in larger amounts less often, it allows the moisture to penetrate deeper into the soil. As a result, the roots of the grass are encouraged to extend further into the soil profile in search of water, which promotes a healthier and more robust turf.

In contrast, frequent shallow watering can lead to shallow root systems and increased evaporation rates, making the grass more susceptible to stress and requiring more frequent watering. This practice can also result in a less drought-tolerant lawn over time.

Other practices like frequent fertilization, reducing mowing height, and the use of chemical herbicides may not be appropriate during dry periods because they can exacerbate stress on the turf. For instance, fertilizing can require additional water for nutrient uptake, while lowering the mowing height can expose the grass to more stress from heat and drought. Herbicides may also stress the turf or may not perform well in dry conditions. Thus, focusing on deep, infrequent watering is the best practice for maintaining turf health during such times.