Watering Your Lawn in Edmonton

Set your lawn up for success with smart watering strategies designed for Edmonton’s hot summers and unpredictable weather. Discover how deep, targeted watering fosters a healthy root system and enhances your yard's resilience, conserving water and promoting sustainability.

Why Proper Lawn Watering Matters in Edmonton 

Alberta’s climate is a challenge for lawns—our summers are often hot and dry, and drought conditions aren’t uncommon. Adequate lawn watering extends beyond simply keeping the grass green. The goal is to establish a deep, resilient root system that withstands stress, uses water efficiently, and maintains a lush yard throughout the growing season. With the right approach, you’ll enjoy a drought-tolerant lawn Alberta can be proud of.

When to Water 

Best time

Water early in the morning between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m. Cool temperatures and gentle winds result in minimal evaporation, allowing leaves to dry quickly and helping prevent fungal disease.

Avoid midday

Avoid watering during the hottest part of the day, as it results in rapid water loss due to evaporation.

Avoid evenings/nights

Wet grass overnight encourages the growth of fungus (such as mushrooms) and pests.

Water only as needed

Look for signs, such as a blue-grey tinge to the grass or footprints that linger. Don’t rely solely on a fixed schedule—Edmonton’s weather can be unpredictable! 

How Much & How Often

Deep soak

Aim for  3–6 inches (8-15 cm) of water per week (including rainfall) to keep roots growing strong. Each session should penetrate deep into the soil. Use the “cycle & soak” method—water for 10 minutes, pause, then repeat until you reach the desired depth (especially for slopes or compacted soil).

Thorough, infrequent sessions

Water once or twice weekly, not every day. Sandy soil dries out more quickly and may require shorter, more frequent watering sessions to maintain optimal moisture levels. Clay soil retains moisture longer, so it requires less frequent watering. 

Rain counts

Subtract natural rainfall from your watering total for the week.

Watering Recommendations

Choosing the right watering equipment can make all the difference in achieving a healthy, resilient lawn while saving time and water. Here’s our guide to effective tools, usage tips, and what to avoid:

Sprinklers

Oscillating or rotary sprinklers are ideal for most lawns, delivering even coverage across your turf. For best results, set out straight-sided cans (like tuna cans) across your lawn and run your sprinkler to measure how long it takes to collect 1 inch of water. This helps you determine the precise run time needed for deep watering, minimizing waste and ensuring your roots are well soaked. 

Irrigation Systems

If convenience is a priority, consider a professionally installed irrigation system equipped with rain sensors and programmable timers. These systems adjust to weather conditions, helping prevent both overwatering and underwatering. With smart controls, you can “set it and forget it,” saving time while keeping your lawn consistently healthy.

*Manual Watering – Why it’s a challenge

Watering by hand with a hose or wand can feel tempting for quick fixes, but it is often the least effective option. It’s difficult to achieve uniform coverage or the deep soaking your lawn needs—most hand watering only moistens the surface. This leads to shallow root growth and increased drought stress. Whenever possible, stick to sprinklers or irrigation systems for reliable results.

How to Know You’re Watering Enough

Try the “screwdriver test.” If a standard screwdriver or trowel can be pushed 6 inches into the ground without force, your soil’s moisture is at an optimal depth. If it’s tough to push down, your lawn needs more water.

Mower Height Matters:

Keep your mower blade set at about 3 inches (7–8 cm) for your healthiest lawn. Taller grass shades the soil and root zone, helping to lock in moisture and encourage deeper root development—making your turf more drought-tolerant and lush.

Extra Guidance

• Water slowly to prevent runoff, especially on slopes or compacted soil. The “cycle & soak” technique—watering in short intervals and allowing the water to soak in—maximizes absorption.  
• Adjust your watering schedule after heavy rains or during cooler weeks—less may be more!  
• Inspect and maintain your watering equipment regularly to make sure it's even distribution and efficient operation.

With the right equipment and methods, you’ll enjoy a vibrant, low-maintenance lawn that’s ready for whatever Alberta’s weather brings.