Lawn Care in Des Moines | Watering Ban Tips & Landscape Ideas

How to Maintain Your Des Moines Lawn During the Watering Ban

With Des Moines Water Works issuing its first-ever lawn watering ban, many homeowners are wondering how to keep their yards healthy without turning on the hose. While the restrictions are in place due to dangerously high nitrate levels in the Raccoon River, it’s also a wake-up call to rethink how we care for our lawns during dry or restricted seasons.

At Signature Lawn & Landscape, we’re committed to helping our clients maintain beautiful, functional yards—while staying eco-friendly and responsive to local needs.

Why the Watering Ban Matters

High nitrate levels—caused by fertilizer and agricultural runoff—are more than just an environmental issue; they’re a public health concern. The recent spike in nitrate levels in the Raccoon River has prompted the first-ever lawn watering ban in Des Moines metro history.

According to AP News, nitrate levels are nearing the federal safety threshold for drinking water—making water conservation more urgent than ever.

Axios Des Moines reports that 12 Central Iowa communities are affected, with enforcement in place to ensure compliance.

And KCCI notes that more than 600,000 residential and commercial customers are impacted, calling it the highest nitrate level the region has seen since 2013.

This isn’t just a temporary measure—it’s a call to adapt how we care for our lawns in a more sustainable, eco-conscious way.

Tips to Keep Your Lawn Healthy Without Daily Watering

1. Mow Higher
Set your mower blades higher than usual. Taller grass shades the soil, holds moisture longer, and promotes deeper root growth.

2. Mulch Grass Clippings
Leave clippings on the lawn—they act as natural mulch, helping retain moisture and returning nutrients to the soil.

3. Aerate to Improve Water Absorption
If your lawn feels compacted, consider core aeration. It helps rainwater or minimal irrigation reach the roots more effectively.

4. Add Organic Matter
Use compost to improve soil structure and moisture retention. Healthier soil = less watering needed.

5. Avoid Fertilizing for Now
Fertilizers contribute to runoff and high nitrate levels. Hold off until the ban is lifted and rain is in the forecast.

Water-Wise Landscaping Ideas

Not all areas of your yard need to be turfgrass. Consider:

• Native Plants: These are adapted to Iowa’s climate and need minimal watering.

• Rock Gardens: Stylish, low-maintenance, and drought-friendly.

• Pollinator Beds: Support local ecosystems while cutting down on watering needs.

How Signature Lawn & Landscape Can Help

We specialize in eco-conscious lawn care and landscape design that supports your yard’s long-term health. Whether you want to upgrade your landscape, aerate your lawn, or explore alternatives to traditional turf, we’re here with smart, local solutions.

📞 Call us at 515-289-2039
📍 Proudly serving Des Moines, Ankeny, Johnston, West Des Moines, and all surrounding areas
🔗 Request a Free Estimate