Many homeowners take pride in a green and healthy lawn, but watering in the summer months can quickly drive up utility bills. Here are five ways to save money and still maintain a lively lawn, from Lawn Love. 

1. Install Smart Irrigation Controllers 

Traditional sprinkler timers run on a set schedule, watering the lawn even when it’s not needed, like after it rains. Smart systems can measure temperature, humidity and precipitation, allowing sprinklers to run only when the grass needs it. 

2. Increase Mowing Height 

“In summer, raise your mowing height by 0.5 to 1 inch to reduce water evaporation and help grass stay cooler,” Lawn Love recommends. “Taller grass shades the soil and encourages deeper root growth, so your lawn can draw moisture from deeper in the soil.” 

Homeowners can look up their grass type to find the optimal mowing height.  

3. Optimize Irrigation Schedule 

Lawn Love notes that lawns need about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week during peak growing season, including rainfall. 

They recommend watering every other day or three times weekly. Avoid watering daily, as it encourages shallow roots that weaken grass, and aim to water between 5 and 9 a.m. 

4. Improve Soil Moisture Retention 

Soil that doesn’t hold moisture well needs more water. Homeowners should test for compaction, as compacted soil prevents water from reaching grass roots and can reduce water infiltration by three to 30 times. 

“Test by pushing a medium to large Phillips head screwdriver into the ground. If it doesn’t sink easily to the handle, your soil is compacted,” Lawn Love advises. 

5. Water Strategically 

Ideal sprinkler systems cover most of the lawn, but certain areas like slopes, under trees or corners can dry out faster. When appropriate, water only these trouble spots instead of running the entire sprinkler system.