If you live on the South Shore of Massachusetts, you’ve likely noticed the toll our recent weather patterns have taken on lawns and landscapes. Over the past few years, we’ve seen everything from unusually warm winters to saturated springs and bone-dry summers. These swings in weather aren’t just frustrating—they’re harmful to your yard. Even long-established trees and shrubs have started showing signs of stress or decline.
As the summer heat intensifies and rainfall becomes scarce, water restrictions are being implemented across the region to conserve local supplies. That means homeowners must be more intentional than ever about how and when they water. Here’s a look at current watering regulations in some key South Shore towns:
💧 South Shore Watering Restrictions (2025)
| Town | Restrictions |
|---|---|
| Hingham | Apr 15–Oct 15: Irrigation only 12:01–10 a.m. & 6–12 midnight |
| Needham | Level 1: 1 day/week (Sunday), only before 9 a.m. or after 5 p.m. |
| Marshfield | Odd/even days or restricted hours; no auto systems or pools |
| Hanover | Odd/even days; watering 6–9 a.m. & 6–9 p.m. by hose only |
| Middleborough | May 1–Sep 30: No sprinklers or non-essential use on Wed/Sat/Sun |
| Randolph | Hand-held hoses only, 6–9 p.m. |
📌 Note: Always double-check with your town or water district for updates—restrictions can change quickly during drought conditions.
Why Lawn Dormancy Isn’t the End—But Needs Management
Here in Massachusetts, most lawns are made up of cool-season grasses. These varieties handle moderate temperatures well but start to struggle once things heat up. When daytime temperatures consistently rise above 85°F, your lawn naturally enters dormancy—a built-in survival mode where grass blades turn brown to conserve energy.
Dormancy isn’t a death sentence, but it does require careful attention. Lawns in this state are fragile, and missteps in watering or mowing can lead to long-term damage or even complete loss of turf.
Mastering Watering: Timing and Technique
With restrictions in place, you may be limited in how often you can water—but how you water is just as important.
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Deep & infrequent watering helps roots grow deeper, where soil stays cooler and wetter.
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For rotary sprinkler zones in full sun, aim for 35–45 minutes per session.
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In shady spots or spray zones, 12–18 minutes is usually sufficient.
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Morning watering (before 9 a.m.) is ideal to reduce evaporation and prevent fungus. Avoid evening watering altogether when humidity is high.
Your lawn typically needs about 1 inch of water per week, and that includes rainfall. A simple rain gauge or tuna can placed on the lawn during watering can help you measure accurately.
Mowing Tips for Drought Defense
Many people unknowingly damage their lawns by mowing too short or with dull blades. During hot, dry stretches, follow these rules:
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Raise the blade—longer grass shades the soil, locking in moisture.
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Keep mower blades sharp to avoid tearing the grass.
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Leave clippings on the lawn—they break down quickly and help with water retention and soil health.
Also consider using a wetting agent. Applied via hose-end sprayer, it helps improve moisture absorption and minimizes runoff during dry spells.
Don’t Forget Your Gardens and Shrubs
Lawns aren’t the only plants impacted by heat and water shortages. Garden beds, shrubs, and trees also need your attention.
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Opt for drought-resistant natives and perennials, which are better suited to our local climate and need less water.
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Drip irrigation or hand watering directly at the base of plants is most effective.
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Hydrangeas are early indicators of drought stress—if you see drooping, water promptly.
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Apply a 2–3 inch layer of mulch around plants to keep moisture in and soil temperatures moderate.
Late-Summer Lawn Recovery: Plan Now for Fall Resilience
Once we make it through the worst of the summer heat, late August through early October is your best window to restore any damage.
If your lawn looks patchy, thin, or brown, core aeration and overseeding can kickstart regrowth and strengthen root systems before winter. For lawns that didn’t survive the summer, it may be time to consider a full renovation. Either way, pairing these steps with a well-planned fertilizer and weed control program will set you up for long-term success.
Ready for a Smarter Lawn Care Strategy?
The good news: drought doesn’t have to spell disaster for your lawn. With a smarter, more strategic approach, your yard can recover and thrive—even under tight water limits.
At Molloy Lawn & Landscape, we’ve been helping South Shore families protect and improve their landscapes for over 60 years. If your lawn is struggling or you’re unsure how to adjust to the drought, we’d be happy to help.
👉 Download your free guide: Drought Defense Tips for Your Lawn
📞 Or contact us today at 617-333-6900 to schedule a consultation and create your custom lawn recovery plan.
Molloy Lawn & Landscape… There’s no lawn like a Molloy lawn!
