Cycle and Soak is a two-cycle process that allows water to slowly penetrate deeply into our compacted, clay soils.  When soil is moist to a depth of 6 to 8 inches, roots are encouraged to grow deeper. Remember, deeper roots support a healthier lawn.

To Cycle and Soak with an automated sprinkler system (Programming your irrigation system’s controller)

1. Turn on and Cycle through each irrigation zone for 5 minutes;
2. Stay off for least 1 hour; then
3. Turn on a second time and Cycle through each irrigation zone for another 5 minutes. 

Verify water is reaching depth of 6 to 8 inches:

1. 30 minutes after the second irrigation cycle, select an area of lawn that has been watered;
2. dig a small hole 8 inches deep; then
3. place your hand in the hole to feel the depth the water has penetrated.

If soil is not wet at a depth of 6 inches, add an additional irrigation cycle. Do not increase the cycle time to more than 5 minutes.

To Cycle and Soak using a hose and sprinkler (manually)

1. Water an area using a sprinkler for 5 minutes;
2. Turn off water and leave off for least 1 hour; then
3. Water a second time for another 5 minutes. 

Verify water is reaching depth of 6 to 8 inches:

1. 30 minutes after the second watering, select an area of lawn that has been watered;
2. dig a small hole 8 inches deep; then
3. place your hand in the hole to feel the depth the water has penetrated.

If soil is not wet at a depth of 6 inches, water for an additional 5 minutes.  Do not water for more than 5 minutes.