OUTDOOR IRRIGATION

The goal of effective irrigation planning is to provide the minimum amount of water to all landscape plants to keep them healthy and attractive. Many plants can be over-watered. One of the most effective ways to water is through the use of an ET Controller. Here are some guidelines for efficient landscape irrigation in the Big Bear Valley.

New plantings - Keep the root zone moist (not sopping wet) for 2-3 weeks before gradually adjusting to the appropriate irrigation schedule described below.

Turf - Determine the minimum irrigation time needed to maintain during hot, summer weather (typically about 15 minutes every other day). Irrigation times during the cooler spring and fall months should be reduced by 1/3 to 1/2 of peak summer irrigation times.

Standard flowering plants - Every other day should be plenty. Many do fine with water every fourth day.

Low water-use flowering plants - Once established, deep soak once every 1-2 weeks. Many do fine with a deep soaking every 2-4 weeks.

Low water-use shrubs & trees - Deep soak these plants once per month. Many require no irrigation to thrive in our climate.

Native flowering plants, shrubs & trees - No irrigation required. In extremely dry years, deep soak once per month.

The above recommendations are generalized guidelines for irrigating plants in the Big Bear Valley. Prior to irrigating, there are two important points to remember. Do not water during the heat of the day. Sprinkler mist and high temperatures lead to high evaporation rates and inefficient irrigation. The other is to make sure your sprinkler timer is set to run only as long as is needed. Using the same setting you ended with last year may lead to over-watering. Begin by setting your timer for 10 minutes per station and watch your lawn and other landscape plants to see whether or not this setting is adequate. Increase your watering time only if your plants need more water.