Landscape professionals generally agree that most landscaping receives more water than is necessary. In water shortage periods, you should water only enough to keep grasses and plant material alive. You can, in part, accomplish this by a process called hardening off. This means to gradually extend the length of time between waterings. Over a period of months, the plants have a tendency to require less water and become more drought resistant. When watering, always follow these rules:
Water only as much as necessary.
The best advice to help you manage water distribution is to know your yard and garden. Visit it often and see what’s working and how your plants are responding to different water levels. If plants look peaked, they need more water, or they have far too much water! Check to see which is true.
The greatest waste of water comes from applying too much, too often – the result being much of the water is never absorbed. Instead of watering for one long session, water a few times for shorter periods and take 15-minute breaks in between each session. This will allow water to soak in, while minimizing runoff.
Water in the Morning.
It’s best to water in the morning between 5am – 10am because the sun is low, winds are calm and temperatures are cool at their times. Watering during the day is less efficient because of possible water loss due to evaporation. Watering in the evening may leave plants wet overnight, which invites fungus and plant disease.
Inspect your system on a regular basis.
Periodically check your irrigation system to make sure everything is working properly. A clogged head or a torn line can wreak havoc on your landscape and water bill. Make sure sprinkler heads are adjusted properly to avoid watering sidewalks and driveways. To minimize evaporation and wind drift, a properly adjusted sprinkler head should spray large drops of water instead of a fine mist. Any run-off means it’s time to quit watering.
Zone your yard.
Different plants need different amounts of water. Divide your yard and landscape areas into separate irrigation zones so that grass can be watered separately and more frequently than groundcovers, shrubs and trees. To achieve the most efficient use of water incorporate both sprinkler and drip irrigation in your yard.
Base watering times on plant needs.
New plants require more water to establish themselves. Once established, watering times may be decreased. A lawn needs 1 inch of water per week. Place marked small containers or cans in your yard before you begin to water. Measure a fraction of an inch, like ?”, to collect the information needed to calculate how long to water your lawns. Be aware that over-watering can cause lawn disease. Both non-native and native plants require water during prolonged summer dry periods.
Once you’ve figured out the optimal amount of water, program the irrigation systems automatic controller. This manages watering days and times. However, it’s important to always monitor the water distribution. Check your timer settings once a month and make necessary adjustments.
Keep in mind, there is no substitute for the knowledge gained from gardeners who spends time in their gardens and knows individual plant needs well.
How can you save water in your household? How can you enjoy a healthy landscape and keep your water usage down? These are questions homeowners find themselves asking when water bills increase and water restrictions are suggested or required. Here is some insight on ways to conserve water in your home through a water-friendly landscape and other water-wise tips:
Top Tips for Efficient Landscape Watering
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Thatch in the lawn restricts penetration of water, air and nutrients, and should be removed as soon as possible.
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If soil is compacted, aerate (core) to increase water and air penetration. Aerating should be done only during the spring months or after fall rains resume.
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Proper fertilization is important. Consult a nursery or landscape professional for information on proper fertilization.
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Keep height at least 2-2 ?” for home lawns.
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Eliminate weeds that can compete for moisture and nutrients.
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Mulch helps planting beds retain moisture.
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If you do not have an underground watering system, use an oscillating (wave type) sprinkler, or an impact-drive revolving sprinkler for larger lawn areas. Never water using a hand-held hose.
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Make sure your sprinkler system is in good repair, that there are no leaks, and that heads are properly adjusted to eliminate any overspray on paved areas or buildings.
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When installing new landscapes, a properly designed and installed irrigation system should be included as a water conservation tool.
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Consider water consumption when selecting and placing plants (zoning).
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Water early in the day to avoid loss due to evaporation.
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Water slowly for longer periods of time to avoid loss due to run-off.
Contributed by Breanne Jones, Communications Director
Washington State Nursery and Landscaping Association
