OUTDOOR WATER USE AND EFFICIENT IRRIGATION TIPS

Paso Roblans use over 3 times the amount of water in the summer as during the winter months due to outdoor irrigation. Many people apply as much as twice the amount of water their landscape requires. Irrigating efficiently is the best way to reduce water use and save money.

Lawn Irrigation

Information Resources

Download Irrigation Controller Manuals

Water Use Efficiency Ideas for Landscape Irrigation
[pdf:36k/1pp]

Water Efficient Landscapes
[pdf:1.15mb/8pp]

Residential Landscapes: Water Use Efficiency Ideas
[pdf:148k/2pp]

Quick Tips

Water No More than 3 days per week, or only when your landscape needs it.
A good way to see if your lawn needs watering is to step on the grass. If it springs back up, you don't need to water. If it stays flat, it's time to water.
Water only before 9 am or after 7 pm on your scheduled day.
Early morning is better than evening, since winds and temperatures are lowest.
Properly position your sprinklers.
Direct spray such that water lands on your lawn or garden, not on concrete.
Check your irrigation system regularly for leaks, broken heads, and to correct overspray problems.
Dry spots on your lawn indicate irrigation coverage problems. Water dry spots by hand instead of increasing sprinkler run times. Look for clogged heads and clean or replace. Heads may also need to be raised to insure proper coverage.
On steep slopes, use multiple, shorter sprinkler run times to eliminate runoff.
Put a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around trees and plants to slow evaporation of moisture from the soil.
Use a broom instead of hose to clean driveways, sidewalks and steps. Remember, cleaning of pavement with a hose is not permitted, unless to alleviate a health hazard.
Don't run the hose while washing your car.
Always use a shut off nozzle on your hose, and a pail of soapy water.