Smart Irrigation Month

Saving water and reducing water waste is on the forefront of conservation efforts as we experience the high temperatures of the summer. July has been deemed Smart Irrigation Month in an effort to raise awareness of the benefits of efficient watering practices. Here are some tips for smart water conservation:

1. Reduce Unnecessary Use: An automated irrigation system is one of the easiest ways to reduce water waste. By choosing a smart controller, one that adjusts watering times in response to changing climates and temperatures, you can make sure that excess water is not being used.
2. Check the System: By having your current system audited, you can identify spots where the irrigation system is being inefficient. Some common inefficiencies include backed up drip lines, watering of non-landscaped areas and hardscapes, and ineffective watering times.
3. Water on Time: With temperatures rising, it is best to water when the sun is low or down in order to prevent evaporation. Watering while the sun is out can cause up to 30% of loss due to evaporation. Make sure to water in the early morning or evening.
4. Water in Zones: Be sure to schedule each individual zone in your irrigation system in concordance with the type of sprinkler, drip irrigation, garden, sun or shade exposure, and soil in that zone. It is very common for different zones to have different watering needs.
5. Consider Soil Polymer: A soil polymer is a chemical, usually in pellet form, that absorbs and retains water in planters and turfs and slowly releases it to the plants for longer, more efficient watering.