How Much Water is Too Much?
Established lawns and landscapes need only about an inch of water each week in temperate climates. Adjust the timer on your sprinkler system and save up to thousands of gallons of water while keeping grass, plants, and trees healthy. Plan to water every two or three days. On watering days:
- Set the run time for a zone of spray heads to just 12 to 20 minutes.
- Set a zone of rotors to run for only 25 to 40 minutes.
- Divide the run time into three or four cycles so each water application is fully absorbed.
- Turn your sprinkler system off (or install a rain sensor that does it automatically) when you get enough rain to soak the soil.
When is the Best Time to Water?
Water
early for the best results. Watering in the early morning (between 4 a.m. and 8 a.m.) saves money and water, while keeping your lawn and landscape healthier. Watering early:
- Reduces water loss from evaporation.
- Avoids stronger daytime winds that may blow water away.
- Improves soil absorption so water gets to plant roots, where it's needed most.
How Can I Prevent Water Waste?
Adjust your sprinkler system to prevent runoff. When your sprinkler system sprays faster than your lawn and landscape can absorb, precious water is wasted. Even a slight slope in your yard can encourage water to run off onto the sidewalk, gutter or street. Prevent runoff by reducing watering time and increasing frequency, so grass, plants and trees can absorb the water they need without waste.