First, if you have new sod or fresh seed, forget everything above. New grass needs light, frequent watering (two or three times a day) to keep the topsoil damp. That’s a different game entirely.
Second, if your local water restrictions only allow evening or afternoon watering, just do it. A slightly wet lawn overnight is still better than a dead one. Prioritize the health of the grass over the perfect schedule.
And finally, if you live somewhere with blistering heat and sandy soil, you might need to water both early morning and late afternoon. Watch your lawn for signs like wilting or a grayish color—it’ll tell you what it needs.