What role does deep, infrequent watering play in disease control?

Deep, infrequent watering plays a crucial role in disease control by helping to reduce the possibility of disease in turfgrass. When grass is watered deeply but less frequently, it encourages the development of a deeper root system. This promotes drought resilience and overall plant health.

Deep watering allows the soil to remain moist at deeper levels for longer periods, which encourages roots to grow downward rather than spreading close to the surface. Shallow watering, on the other hand, often leads to a proliferation of shallow roots, making grass more susceptible to drought stress and diseases.

Moreover, the timing and method of irrigation can also help minimize excess moisture on the leaf surface, which is a conducive environment for fungal diseases. By not keeping the grass overly moist and limiting surface water, the chances for disease epidemics diminish, resulting in healthier turfgrass overall.

This understanding reinforces the importance of appropriate watering practices in disease management and highlights why deep, infrequent watering is beneficial compared to other options presented in the question.