Homeowners Tip: How to water your Lawn in the Western U.S.

They say the grass is always greener on the other side—but what are they doing differently? Sometimes, the key to a healthy, green lawn in the Western United States comes down to getting back to the basics—like proper watering.

Whether you're in high desert terrain, mountain foothills, or a windy prairie, the wrong watering routine can lead to yellow patches, bare spots, fungus, mushrooms, or even dead grass. Here's how to give your lawn the care it needs to thrive in the West.

1. Know Your Soil

In the West, soil conditions vary widely from region to region—even from one neighborhood to another. The six main types of soil include loam, clay, sandy, silty, chalky, and peat, and each one holds water differently.

• Sandy and chalky soils (often found in dry or high-altitude areas) drain quickly and may need more frequent watering.

• Clay soils absorb water slowly but hold onto it longer, requiring deep watering less often.

• Loam and silt soils are ideal for lawns and provide good drainage and moisture retention.

• Peat soils, while less common in the West, hold water like a sponge and should only be watered once the top few inches begin to dry out.

Need help identifying your soil type? A simple DIY soil test or a visit to your local agricultural extension office can help.

2. Understand Your Irrigation Setup

In the West, water is a precious resource—so it’s important to know how efficient your irrigation system is. Whether you’re using sprinklers, soaker hoses, drip lines, or just a good old-fashioned hose, your method should match your lawn size, sun exposure, and soil type.

• Homes on larger lots may benefit from zoned sprinkler systems or smart irrigation controllers.

• Compact yards may only need a few minutes of hand watering or a rotating sprinkler head on a timer.

• Make sure to adjust for elevation, wind, and sun exposure, which can vary dramatically across Western climates.

Bonus Tip: If your area experiences freezing winters, be sure to winterize your system in the fall to avoid burst lines in spring.

3. How Much Water Does Your Lawn Really Need?

Lawns typically need 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week—but in the West, this can vary based on sun exposure, temperature, wind, and rainfall.

To figure out how much water you're actually using:

• Place a flat container (like a tuna can) on your lawn.

• Run your sprinkler system for 20–30 minutes.

• Measure the water in the can to calculate your sprinkler’s output.

Sandy soils may need 2–3 shorter waterings per week, while clay-rich areas might do fine with one longer session.

4. Timing Matters

In drier climates and high elevations, when you water is just as important as how much.

• Best time to water: Early morning, before 10 a.m.

• Avoid: Watering at night (can cause fungal growth) or during the heat of midday (evaporation loss)

Morning watering gives your lawn time to absorb moisture while letting the blades dry out in the sun—reducing the risk of disease and waste.

5. Want the Greener Grass? Work With Nature

There’s no one-size-fits-all watering routine. But when you understand your soil type, irrigation system, climate, and watering schedule, you’re already on your way to a lawn you can be proud of.

Whether you're dealing with rocky terrain, high-altitude air, or intense summer heat, working with your local conditions can keep your grass healthy and green all season long. Remember these tips when you water your lawn in the Western U.S.

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At New Peak Homes, we believe your home—inside and out—should reflect your lifestyle, your landscape, and your future. Whether you're planning your dream yard, customizing your floor plan, or building in a high-elevation zone, it all starts with smart design and thoughtful choices.

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