Spring has finally sprung, and after a long Canadian winter, your lawn is ready to wake up and get growing. But before you drag out the hose or fire up the sprinklers, let’s talk timing. Knowing when to start watering your lawn in the spring is one of the best-kept secrets to a healthy lawn all season long.
If you’re like most homeowners, you want lush, green grass—but watering too early can do more harm than good. At Dr. Green Lawn Care, we get this question every year, and we’re here with some expert lawn care advice to help you get it just right.
So, When Is the Best Time to do it?
The short answer: Wait until your lawn needs it.
The long answer: In early spring, the soil still holds a good amount of moisture from snow melt and spring rains. If you start watering too early, you might oversaturate your lawn, promoting shallow roots and even inviting disease.
Generally, the best time to start watering is when:
- Daytime temperatures consistently hit above 15°C (60°F)
- There’s less rainfall (you haven’t had a good rain in 5–7 days)
- The grass looks a little dull or curled, and footprints linger longer than usual (a sign of mild drought stress)
In southern Ontario, this sweet spot typically falls in late April to early May, depending on weather.
How Often Should You Water?
Here’s the golden rule: Water deeply, but not too often. Aim for about 1 inch of water per week, including rainfall. Remember: you want to mimic nature to allow for your grass to become naturally more resistant to disease, weeds and fungus. That usually means:
- Once or twice per week is enough in spring
- Water early in the morning (between 6 a.m. and 10 a.m.) to reduce evaporation and fungal issues
- Avoid watering at night—damp overnight conditions encourage disease
Why Timing Matters for Grass Care
Starting your watering schedule at the right time does a lot more than just keep your grass green. It encourages deep root growth, which is essential for a lawn that can handle summer heat and drought.
On the flip side, watering too early or too often can:
- Lead to shallow roots that can’t access deeper moisture
- Cause runoff and nutrient loss
- Encourage fungal disease and even weeds
At Dr. Green, we’re not just about mowing lawns—we’re about smart lawn care service that builds long-term health from the soil up.
Bonus Lawn Care Tips for Spring
While you’re at it, here are a few extra spring lawn care tips to give your grass the best start:
- Aerate compacted soil to improve water and nutrient absorption
- Apply a spring fertilizer to kickstart growth
- Keep mower blades sharp and avoid cutting the grass too short (aim for 2.5 to 3 inches)
- Call your local lawn care service (like us!) to help with customized care plans
Need Help Getting Your Lawn in Shape?
At Dr. Green, we offer expert lawn care services across Burlington, Oakville, Mississauga, and the surrounding areas. Whether you’re looking for advice on when to water your lawn, seasonal fertilizing, or weed control, we’ve got you covered.
A healthy lawn starts with the right timing—and a little help from the pros.
Ready to get started? Let’s grow something great together.
