Water - like in-law visits and delicious desserts - is taken best in moderation.

For your lawn, water is one of the main drivers of photosynthesis, the complicated biological process that helps your grass thrive. Too little water, and the process breaks down - and your green grass turns to brown. Too much water leads to damaged root systems, greater likelihood of pests and lower tolerance for drought. And your lawn, again, turns brown.

Of course, you know what happens if you water appropriately - a thick, lush, greensward that may garner you that coveted Yard of the Month award.

Read on for some lawn-watering tips that will benefit your lawn, your state of mind and the environment we should be trying so hard to preserve.

When to water

Water the lawn early in the morning, to mitigate rapid loss by evaporation and wind occurring in the heat of the summer's day. Nighttime watering is not recommended, as the lack of heat causes the lawn to retain too much water - a surefire attraction for insects and other diseases.

How much to water

In most areas of the country, lawns need about one inch of water each week - courtesy of Mother Nature or your sprinkler system. To determine if your lawn is getting the right amount, place a rain gauge near your lawn; check it weekly to see if too much or too little water is hitting the surface.

Saving on your water bill

Taking a few smart steps will reduce the frequency and duration of your watering efforts - and help you reduce the consumption (and cost) of public water use.

Strategically place a rain barrel to capture rain water from your roof and gutters. Not only does it give you ample water for watering problem areas but it will sharply reduce runoff, which can carry fertilizers, pesticides and debris into the storm drain. Also, aerate your lawn at least once a year; this will make it easier for the water to penetrate through the soil and into the root system, which also lessens the amount of runoff.

And keep an eye on the weather forecast. If it's going to rain, shut off or reprogram your automatic sprinkler system.  

Feeding frenzy

Water is great for your lawn. But make sure to "feed" it, too - with fertilizer, lime or sulphur (depending on the pH level), pre-emergent weed killer and/or post-emergent pest control - as needed throughout the year, especially during the spring and summer growing season. Throughout the season, mow regularly and at a proper height for your type of grass/weather conditions to enable the water and food you're serving to do the best job for your lawn.

Of course, proper care of your lawn - including watering - can vary depending on the seed variety of your grass and the environmental conditions in your area. Check with a local lawn and garden expert for advice specific to your lawn.