Quick Tip #1

Landscape with watering in mind.

Avoid planting turf species that require frequent watering, such as bluegrass or ryegrass.

Design your landscape to minimize water runoff onto hard surfaces and into storm drains.

To reduce runoff, install nonirrigated buffer areas, which include water-efficient plants or permeable features, next to sidewalks or on slopes.

Aerate heavy or compacted soils, so water can easily move down to reach grass roots.

Install an irrigation system that you can adjust to properly water areas of your landscape that have different requirements.

 

Aerate heavy soils to improve your lawn.

Water only when your lawn needs it.

Water requirements vary according to turf species, location, and month of the year.

Most lawns need water when the top 2 inches of soil have dried out.

Shady and sunny areas and different soil types will have different water requirements.

Deeper, less frequent watering is best for most lawns. Water only 2 to 3 times a week.

Make sure your sprinkler system isn’t producing runoff, especially on slopes. If you see runoff, use shorter watering times and repeat the cycle to allow time for the water to move into the soil.

Water early in the morning when evaporation and wind are minimal.

Adjust your watering schedule seasonally, and shut off your irrigation system during rainy weather.

 

Check sprinkler system output with a “can test”.

Maintain your irrigation system.

Check your irrigation system regularly for leaks, broken or misdirected heads, faulty valves, and other malfunctions. Adjust sprinklers to keep water off driveways, sidewalks, and streets.

Improve your system with devices such as rotor heads, “smart” (ET) controllers, and soil moisture sensors.

Use a “can test” to see how evenly your sprinkler system covers different areas of your lawn and to estimate how long to water.