What is the recommended action when first noticing wilting in turf?

When first noticing wilting in turf, the recommended action is to water thoroughly. This is because wilting is often a sign that the grass is experiencing water stress, and immediate watering can help to restore moisture to the soil and grass blades. Providing adequate water can revive the turf and prevent further stress or damage.

Watering thoroughly allows the moisture to penetrate deeply into the soil, ensuring that the roots receive the hydration they need. It also encourages deeper root growth, which can improve the grass's resilience to future drought conditions.

While applying fertilizer might seem beneficial, it is not an appropriate immediate response to wilting, as the stressed grass may not effectively utilize the nutrients. Cutting grass to a lower height can further stress the plants, especially if they are already wilting, as it removes a significant portion of the leaf area which is responsible for photosynthesis. Decreasing watering frequency would exacerbate the wilting problem by reducing moisture availability, making it counterproductive during this critical time.