Reducing Summer Outdoor Water Use
March 02, 2022
With summer around the corner, temperatures will be on the rise. Spring and summer require increased attention to irrigation and outdoor water use.
TIMING IS EVERYTHING
It's best to water lawns and landscapes in the early morning and late evening, after the sun goes down. Significant amounts of water can be lost due to evaporation during the heat of the day.
TUNE UP YOUR SYSTEM
Inspect irrigation systems and check for leaks and broken or clogged sprinkler heads. Did you know that just one broken sprinkler head can waste up to 25,000 gallons of water over a six-month irrigation season.
SEPARATE YOUR PLANTS INTO ZONES
When planting, assign your landscape different water-zones depending on sun/shade exposure, soil/plant types, and type of sprinklers, then adjust your system or schedule based on those zones sprecific needs.
STEP ON IT
Grass doesn't always need water just because it's hot outside. Step on the lawn, and if the grass springs back, it doesn't need water.
LEAVE IT LONG
Raise your lawn mower blade. Longer grass promotes deeper root growth, making it more drought-resistant, reduces evaporation, and allows for fewer weeds.
GIVE YOUR HOSE A BREAK
Sweep driveways, sidewalks, and steps rather than hosing them off. Also, don't forget to check your spigot connections for leaks and tighten as necessary.