More than half of our community's residential water is used for irrigation. Significant savings are achieved with efficient sprinkler systems and watering practices. Here are some tips to help you conserve water outdoors.
General
- When establishing new landscape, incorporate XeriscapeTM techniques.
- Minimize evaporation by watering in the early morning or evening (before 9 a.m. or after 6 p.m.) when temperatures are cooler and winds are lighter.
- Water only when plants need it and not more than three days a week.
- Water should be applied to a depth of six to eight inches with each watering.
- Apply water only as fast as your soil can absorb it so it does not pool or run off. If run off or pooling occurs before water penetrates to six inches, water in two shorter cycles separated by a few hours.
- If one-quarter to one-half of an inch of rain has fallen, delay watering until necessary.
- Direct downspouts and other run off toward shrubs and trees.
Hand watering
- Use the sprinkler for larger areas of grass. Water small patches by hand to avoid waste.
- Use a positive shut-off nozzle when watering by hand. This allows you to place water on specific plants that need it and not waste water by allowing it to just run.
Irrigation systems
- A rain shut-off device or rain sensor shuts off the irrigation system when adequate moisture is detected in the soil. Sensors are an efficient way to assure plants are receiving the appropriate amount of water, and they can help save money.
- Know your irrigation controller. The water needs that plants have change regularly. Knowing how to change your irrigation clock to mach the needs of your plants can save you money and help keep your plants healthier.
- Install spray heads with check valves on your irrigation system. This keeps the system from draining after each watering cycle.
- Use a cycle/soak method. Divide your watering cycle into shorter periods to reduce runoff and allow for better absorption every time you water.
- Periodically check to make sure the system is functioning correctly. Check for proper adjustment of heads and emitters to ensure there are no leaks or breaks. If equipment is cut, clogged or pointing in the wrong direction, a lot of water will be wasted and plants will suffer.
