Water is essential for a healthy, lush yard. It supplies grass with the water it needs to produce food via photosynthesis.
Unfortunately, there are times when your yard will receive too much water, at which point it will become “waterlogged.” The otherwise solid ground will become soggy, spongy, and difficult to walk on – a sure-fire sign that it’s receiving too much water.
Here in Central Texas we’ve had much higher rainfall than normal this year. So, how do you deal with a waterlogged yard?
Causes of Waterlogging
Waterlogging is the result of water gathering on the surface of the soil, gradually accumulating over time to the point where it becomes saturated.
Normally, water should drain either into or away from the soil, but this doesn’t always happen. Some yards are prone to waterlogging, in which the water accumulates on the soil rather than draining away from it.
It’s important to note that waterlogging is more common on clay soil as opposed to compacted ground soil. The soft texture of clay absorbs the water, holding and accumulating it.
But just because your yard isn’t clay doesn’t mean you are immune from the effects of waterlogging. This phenomenon can occur in all types of yards, regardless of the soil or its texture.
Improve Your Yard’s Drainage
The first step in treating a waterlogged yard is to improve its drainage. If your yard becomes saturated with rainwater, it’s probably indicative of poor drainage.
For instance, homes without gutters are susceptible to this, as rainwater simply pours off the roof rather than flowing through the gutter. Assuming your home doesn’t already have them, consider installing gutters to help guide the rainwater away from your home and yard.
Spike The Surface
Another helpful tip for dealing with a waterlogged yard is to spike the surface. This can be done using a special aerator tool, spiked shoes/boots, etc.
Once you’ve created medium-sized holes throughout your yard, fill them with a free-draining material like horticulture sand so the water will flow deeper into the soil.
Fertilize During The Spring
Healthy lawns are less prone to waterlogging, which is why it’s a good idea to fertilizer your lawn at least once per year, preferably during the early-to-mid spring season.
Doing so will give your yard a helpful boost of nutrition, ensuring the grass will grow stronger and more resilient to excessive moisture. This alone isn’t going to prevent waterlogging, but it’s one more technique you can use to prevent damage caused by excessive rainfall and water backups.
The Woodsman Company offers tree planting, tree pruning and shrub trimming, tree removal and stump grinding as well as a tree wellness program.
If we can help with any of your tree care needs give us a call at 512-846-2535 or 512-940-0799 or
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