Watering Your Lawn in the Winter

Lawns in Florida need less water during winter than during the rest of the year. In the spring and summer, grass may need water every three to five days, but only once every two or three weeks in winter, depending on where you live.

Grass grows more slowly during the colder months, requiring less watering and mowing. To save water, set your irrigation timer to manual throughout the year. Water your grass only when it shows signs of wilt—when about half the blades are folded and are blue-gray in color, and when footprints remain in the lawn.

Remember to irrigate with one-half to three-quarters of an inch of water, and only when needed. Always abide by your local watering restrictions. Don't forget, watering less will mean more money in your pockets.

UF/IFAS Sites

• FAWN: Watering Your Florida Lawn
• Florida-Friendly Living: Water Efficiently
• Living Green: Lawn Irrigation

UF/IFAS Publications

• Dormant Lawns Demand Little (PDF)
• How Much Should I Be Watering My St. Augustine Lawn in Winter? (PDF)
• Lawns Need Care During the Winter (PDF)
• November Brings Changes and Challenges (PDF)
• November Lawn Care (PDF)
• Watering Your Florida Lawn

Also on Gardening in a Minute

• Plant Dormancy
• Watering Your Lawn
• Winterizing Your Lawn

Other Sites

• Skip a Week of Watering in Winter--Southwest Florida Water Management District