CONSERVATION CORNER
PROPER IRRIGATION
Proper irrigation, in a general sense, typically
means delivering the right amount of water when and where
it is needed. However, its more complicated than this and
really begins with proper layout of your landscape and grouping
plants with similar water needs. Most landscapes include
a mix of areas that need supplemental water and those that
don't. Make sure that your water delivery system only waters
areas that need irrigation. Watering sidewalks, gravel areas,
decks, and established native or xeriscape palntings wastes
water. Next, make sure your delivery system is appropriate
for your landscape. Installing sprinklers where a drip system
would be more efficient also wastes water. Finally, water
only when your plants need it. Watering during rainy periods
is unnecessary. Consider the following tips to aid in your
outdoor water conservation this summer.
- Loosen up - aerate your lawn in the spring and fall
to loosen the soil and reduce runoff.
- Read the signs - check your plants and lawn often to
look for signs of water stress. Don't water when you
feel like it, water only when your plants need it.
- Different watering schedules - trees, shrubs, xeriscape
plants, and lawns all need different watering schedules.
Water each according to their different needs.
- Spot water - in areas with low density trees, shrubs,
or other plants, consider drip irrigation instead of
watering the whole area. Apply the right amount of water
exactly where it is needed.
- Water tight - check your irrigation system periodically
to make sure that there are no broken or cracked pipes
and all emitters are in place and functioning properly.
- Be handy and shoot straight - don't be a stranger to
your water system. When a sprinkler breaks, fix it! Always
double-check to make sure that your system is applying
the water where you want it, not on the driveway or sidewalk.
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