Outdoor Tips
During the hottest, driest summer months, more than half of the water supplied to residents is used for lawn irrigation. We’ve compiled some easy tips below to help you conserve.
During the hottest, driest summer months, more than half of the water supplied to residents is used for lawn irrigation. We’ve compiled some easy tips below to help you conserve.
When possible, use commercial carwashes. Unlike washing your car in the driveway, commercial carwashes use water recycling systems to reuse water and reduce waste.
Instead of using water to clean patios, sidewalks and driveways, simply sweep away leaves and debris.
Taller grass holds moisture better. Don’t cut more than 1/3 of its length at one time. Shorter grass results in quicker dehydration of the soil.
Aeration allows water to soak into the ground and benefit the lawn. Packed soil results in unnecessary runoff. Setting your mower to “mulch” returns valuable nutrients to the soil.
To help your soil hold more water, place at least a 6-inch layer of soil with high-quality compost mixed in.
Drought tolerant plants are beautiful as well as water-thrifty. See the Resources page on this site for wonderful guides to see a vast selection of these native plants.
Keep soil moist and protect roots from heat by placing a 2-3 inch layer of much. Avoid touching the trunk in order to prevent rotting from constant moisture. Mulch helps prevent runoff and provides weed control as well.
Watering too much can result in diseases for lawns and foliage and can also cause mold. Also, why pay for water that you don’t need?
Apply only enough water to moisten the root zone of your plants (6 to 8 inches deep), to avoid runoff, and then allow the soil to dry before watering again.
Make sure the irrigation control is programmed correctly and set to adhere to the the twice-per week designated watering days. Zones shouldn’t run for more than 10-15 minutes at a time. Shorter times can be used for areas that need less water.
Soil moisture sensors are available at garden and hardware stores and ensure that you aren’t over watering your lawn or garden. See the Resources page for possible rebates.
Windy conditions can blow water onto areas that you aren’t intending to water, such as sidewalks, driveways and streets. Heavy wind also results in extreme evaporation.
Irrigation systems can be the biggest waster of water. Make sure to replace any broken heads and watch for mis-directed heads that may be watering the street. See the Resources page for possible rebates for water efficient upgrades.
Soaker hoses are great for use around trees, bushes, and in flower beds. These types of hoses are permitted without restriction, are extremely water efficient, and minimize evaporation. They are also perfect for those hard-to-water places between sidewalks and the street.
Although watering restrictions are in effect, you may still water your garden with a hose (equipped with a pistol grip nozzle) any day of the week.
Use the water collected in rain barrels or other water harvesting devices to water your plants and garden. The nutrients in rainwater are also more beneficial to your lawn and garden.
Periodically check for leaks and repair them immediately. If you have an auto-fill, and it’s running more often, this could be a sign that you have a leak.
A dirty pool filter doesn’t do the job intended. Replacing the filter as needed will help your pool and pump’s performance, resulting in water savings.
When pools and spas are not in use, covering them reduces evaporation and the amount of water needed to maintain a perfect level. It also reduces the amount of debris in the pool and filtration system.