G'day, Nikolai here from The Lawn Firm. Watering your lawn in Canberra can be tricky, especially when water restrictions are in place. But with a bit of planning and the right strategy, you can keep your lawn healthy without breaking the rules. Here’s how we work with Canberra’s restrictions to make sure our clients still get great results.

Understanding Canberra’s Water Restrictions

ACT watering restrictions usually apply during hot, dry months when water supply is low. The rules can vary, but often include:

Limited watering days (e.g. odd or even days)
Specific times of day (usually early morning or evening)
Bans on sprinklers or certain types of irrigation

It’s important to check the current rules and regulations so you stay compliant.

Smart Watering Tips That Work with Restrictions

Even with limits in place, there are ways to keep your lawn looking good:

Water deeply, not frequently: This encourages deep root growth. Two good soaks per week are more effective than light daily watering.
Water early: Early morning watering reduces evaporation and gives your lawn time to dry during the day.
Use a hose with a trigger nozzle: This saves water and keeps you within the guidelines.

Improve Water Absorption with Wetting Agents

Canberra’s clay-heavy soils often repel water after drying out. We apply wetting agents to help water soak in evenly, reducing runoff and wastage.

This small step makes a big difference during restricted watering periods.

Choose the Right Grass and Mowing Routine

Drought-tolerant grasses like Zoysia and Buffalo do better under restrictions. Letting your grass grow a little taller (within reason) can also help it retain more moisture.

Mow higher and less frequently during dry spells to reduce stress.