See the chart below for suggested watering times and frequency for the seeds and seedlings. After your seed is spread and raked in, water it consistently and evenly, two-to-three times per day for the first two weeks. The surface should be saturated, but the water should not pool or run off. Make sure the soil stays consistently moist to encourage the seeds to germinate. After germination, water once a day.
The grasses’ irrigation needs will gradually taper off over the first few months after planting. In general, water frequently and in short cycles during the first two weeks. After that, gradually increase the length of time for each watering cycle while decreasing how often you water.
KEEP FOOT TRAFFIC TO A MINIMUM DURING THIS PERIOD.
Consider swapping out your sprinkler heads for taller versions at least 6 inches tall to accommodate the new height potential of your native grasses.
Please reference the detailed watering guide below from the Native Grass Manual:
| Weeks after seeding | Application Rate per Watering Cycle | Frequency | ||||
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| 0-2 | 0.1 inches | Two to three times per day | 4 | 9 | 12 | Keep soil surface consistently moist but avoid runoff and puddling |
| 3-4 | 0.2 inches | Once per day | 8 | 18 | 24 | Moisten soil daily to prevent new seedlings from dehydrating |
| 5-6 | 0.3 inches | Every other day | 12 | 27 | 36 | Allow soil surface to dry out between waterings but maintain consistent moisture farther down. |
| 7-8 | 0.3 inches | Three times per week | 12 | 27 | 36 | Top inch of soil can dry out between waterings. Moisture in soil profile will encourage healthy roots. |
| 9-12 | 0.5 inches | Twice per week | 20 | 45 | 60 | As seedlings grow longer roots they can gradually be watered less often. |
| 13-16 | 0.5 inches | Once per week | 20 | 45 | 60 | Water regularly to encourage health of new seedlings. |
| Year 2 and beyond | 0.5 inches | Once per month or as needed | 20 | 45 | 60 | Schedule water to achieve project goals and desired grass appearance. |
