NOW IN STAGE 3 WATER CONSERVATION ~
ONE DAY A WEEK OF OUTDOOR WATERING
Tips to Save Water Outdoors
During the hottest summer months, watering lawns accounts for more than HALF of Cedar Park’s water consumption.
Here are some helpful tips on how you can do your part
to conserve water.
General Tips for
Saving Water
Use a Broom Instead of Water
When cleaning patios, sidewalks and driveways, sweep away leaves and debris instead of using a hose or pressure washer.
Wash your Car Less Often
Instead of washing your car in the driveway, use a commercial carwash (because they use water recycling systems to reuse water and reduce waste.)
Landscaping Tips for Saving Water
Leave Your Grass Longer
Taller grass holds moisture better, so don’t mow your lawn short. Don’t cut more than 1/3 of its length at one time. Shorter grass results in quicker dehydration of the soil. Set your lawn mower to a higher setting and let your lawn grow.
Aerate Your Lawn
Aeration is perforating the soil with small holes to allow air, water, and nutrients to penetrate the grass roots. This allows water to soak into the ground, benefiting your lawn and preventing unnecessary water runoff.
Don’t Bag Your Grass Clippings
Leaving your lawn clippings as “mulch” instead of bagging, returns valuable nutrients to the soil and it’s less work for you.
Mix Compost Into Your Soil
Help your soil hold more water by placing at least a 6-inch layer of soil with high-quality compost mixed in.
Use Drought Tolerant Plants
Drought tolerant plants are beautiful as well as water thrifty. You can see a vast selection of these native plants on our resources page.
Mulch Around Plants and Trees
Keep soil moist and protect roots from heat by placing a 2-to-3-inch layer of mulch. Avoid having mulch directly touching the tree trunk in order to prevent rotting from constant moisture. Mulch also helps prevent runoff and controls weeds.
Do Not Overwater Your Lawn
Watering too much can result in diseases for lawns and foliage and can also cause mold. Why pay for more water than what your lawn and plants need?
Irrigation Tips for
Saving Water
Use Only What You Need
Apply only enough water to moisten the root zone of your plants (6 to 8 inches deep). Then make sure that the soil has dried completely before watering again.
Program a Controller
Use an irrigation controller and make sure it is programmed correctly. Set it to adhere to your once-per week designated watering day. Zones shouldn’t run for more than 10-15 minutes at a time. Shorter times can be used for areas that need less water.
Install a Soil Moisture Sensor
Soil moisture sensors are available at garden and hardware stores and ensure that you aren’t over watering your lawn or garden. For possible rebates, see our resources page.
Don’t Water on Windy Days
Wind 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.
Maintain Your System
Irrigation systems can be the biggest waster of water. Make sure to replace any broken heads and watch for misdirected heads that may be spraying water on the street, sidewalks, or driveways. For possible rebates on water efficient upgrades, see our resources page.
Use a Soaker Hose to Prevent Runoff
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.
Install and Use Rain Barrels
Use the water collected in rain barrels or other water harvesting devices to water your plants. The nutrients in rainwater are beneficial to your lawn and garden. For possible rebates on rain barrels, see our resources page.
Swimming Pool Tips for Saving Water
Maintain Your Pool Filter
Cleaning and replacing the filter as needed will help your pool and pump’s performance, resulting in water savings.
Cover Pools and Spas When 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.
Check for Leaks and Cracks in Your Pool
Periodically check for leaks and repair them immediately. If you have an autofill, and it’s running more often, this could be a sign that you have a leak.