IRRIGATION SYSTEMS
Some experts estimate that more than 50% of landscape water use goes to waste due to evaporation or runoff caused by over watering! Here are some simple tips to reduce outdoor water use dramatically:
• Using weather based irrigation scheduling on a moderate-sized yard can save up to 37 gallons of water per day.
• Grass doesn’t need to be watered every day; 1” per week is all that’s necessary. If you can easily stick a screwdriver into your lawn—don’t water!
• Inspect your system monthly to prevent leaks, broken or clogged heads, and other problems.
DRIP IRRIGATION AND SOAKER HOSES – THE BEST WAYS TO WATER
Use a drip irrigation system or soaker hose in gardens that need the most water (“moisture-zoned” gardens) - vegetables, fruits, newly planted trees and shrubs, and some flower gardens.
Drip irrigation consists of a system of nozzles that deliver small quantities of water at low pressure directly to the root zones of plants. Drip irrigation can save 30%-70% of the water used by overhead sprinkler systems.
A soaker hose is a canvas or rubber hose with perforations. It is most effective when it lies on top or slightly below soil level and mulch is placed over the soil and hose. You can install the hose in the spring and leave it in place all season.
In general, use the drip irrigation or soaker hose methods until the soil is
moist 3” below the surface.
If your garden is small, use a hose to apply water
very slowly at the base of each plant not on leaves and foliage. Saucer-like
basins around each plant help to concentrate water where it is most needed,
at the plant’s roots.
RAIN BARRELS
Place barrels or other large containers under downspouts to collect rain water
garden use. Cover the barrel with a lid or mesh fabric to prevent mosquitoes
from breeding. Rain barrels are most useful if you can locate plants that require
moist soil nearby.
