Lawn Maintenance During Rainy Weather: How to Keep Your Grass Green Without Overwatering

Rain is essential for a thriving lawn, but excessive moisture can lead to problems such as waterlogged soil, fungal diseases, and weak root growth. When heavy rains persist, proactive lawn care can help prevent overwatering and maintain healthy grass.

Here’s how to keep your lawn in top shape during wet weather.

Aerate Your Lawn for Better Soil Drainage

Excess water can suffocate grassroots, leading to weak and patchy growth. Aeration helps alleviate this by loosening compacted soil, allowing water to drain efficiently and preventing puddling. Core aeration, which removes small plugs of soil, is particularly effective in improving water absorption.

Improve Drainage with Organic Matter

Adding organic matter like compost or sand enhances soil structure and drainage, especially in heavy clay soils. For yards prone to flooding, installing a French drain or adjusting lawn grading can help redirect excess water away from your sod, preventing water accumulation.

Mow at the Correct Height

Mowing too soon after heavy rain can stress the grass and increase disease susceptibility. Keeping your lawn at three to four inches of height promotes more profound root growth, improving moisture absorption and resilience against wet conditions.

Avoid Walking on Wet Grass

Walking on waterlogged grass compacts the soil, restricting airflow and nutrient absorption. This can lead to puddling and thinning patches. To maintain healthy soil structure, avoid foot traffic on soaked lawns.

Monitor Moisture Levels with a Rain Gauge

A rain gauge helps track rainfall so you can adjust watering accordingly. Most grass varieties require about one inch of water per week, including rainfall. If your area has received enough rain, pause irrigation to prevent overwatering.

Use Fertilizer Wisely

Over-fertilizing during wet weather can be counterproductive, as excess nutrients may wash away before they can be absorbed. To minimize nutrient runoff, use a slow-release fertilizer that remains effective even in damp conditions.

Watch for Fungal Diseases

Excess moisture increases the risk of fungal infections such as brown patches, dollar spots, and powdery mildew. Look for discolored patches, a slimy texture, or a musty odor—signs of potential fungal growth. Applying a lawn-safe fungicide when necessary can help mitigate these issues.

Clear Lawn and Yard Debris to Prevent Water Build-Up

Leaves, grass clippings, and other debris trap moisture, creating a breeding ground for mold and pests. Regularly raking and clearing debris ensures proper airflow and prevents standing water. If pooling occurs, check gutters and drainage systems for clogs.

Adjust Your Watering Schedule

If you use an automatic sprinkler system, adjust the schedule based on rainfall forecasts. Smart irrigation controllers can help optimize watering by responding to real-time weather conditions, reducing the risk of overwatering.

Grass Varieties That Tolerate Wet Conditions

Certain grass types are more resistant to excess moisture. If you live in a rainy region, consider varieties such as Scotts® ProVista™ St. Augustine, which thrives with deep, infrequent watering. In contrast, if you’re in a drier climate, Zoysia grass is a drought-tolerant option that still performs well in moderate moisture.