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Irrigation

As much as 30% of water can be lost to evaporation by watering the lawn during midday.
Homes with in-ground sprinkler systems use 35% more water outdoors than those who do not have an in-ground system. One reason may be that system controllers are not adjusted according to seasonal irrigation needs.

General Watering

Water before 8 A.M. or after 6 P.M. and avoid watering on windy days.

Water in several short sessions rather than one long one. For example, three ten minute sessions spaced 30 minutes to an hour apart will allow your lawn to better absorb moisture than one straight 30 minute session.

Only water when your lawn is thirsty. Over watering promotes shallow root growth making your lawn less hardy. (To determine if your lawn needs to be watered, simply walk across the grass. If you leave footprints, it's time to water.)

Install moisture sensors in each irrigation zone (sunny, shady, etc.) to better determine irrigation needs.

Sprinklers/Sprinkler Systems

Check sprinkler system valves periodically for leaks and keep the heads in good repair.
Adjust the timer on automatic sprinklers according to seasonal water demands and weather conditions.

Install a rain shut-off device on automatic sprinklers to eliminate unneeded applications.
Make sure your sprinkler is placed so it only waters the lawn, not the pavement.

Avoid sprinklers that spray a fine mist, which increases evaporation.

Drip Irrigation

Install a drip irrigation system for watering gardens, trees and shrubs. Drip irrigation provides a slow, steady trickle of water to plants at their roots through a network of hidden pipes and hoses. The systems are regulated by a controller that can be adjusted for different levels of watering according to the needs of the plants. Drip irrigation systems reduce over watering, inefficient watering, weed growth, and the time and labor involved in hand watering.