Watering Tips For Efficient Irrigation

The object of efficient irrigation is to water only the soil surrounding the root area of the plant. Here’s some other tips to save water outdoors:

Do not apply water more rapidly than the soil absorbs it.

Turn off your sprinkler system at the first sign of saturation or runoff to allow the first watering to soak in. Water again in an hour or two if needed.

Watering should be done during early morning hours when evaporation is least likely to occur. Unlike sprinklers, drip irrigation or soaker hoses may be used during the day with minimal loss due to evaporation.

Water only once a week. Deep weekly waterings should be sufficient. Water less often if your plants need less moisture. Water more frequently if runoff occurs or the weather is hot.

Do not water when it’s windy.

Consider alternate landscaping practices. Reduce turf area or use groundcovers or mulches instead of turf. Generally, groundcovers require less water than turf areas.

Consider low water-using turf varieties. Ask for drought tolerant bluegrass, and try turf-type tall fescues, ryes, and buffalo grass.

Remove thatch build-up in turf areas as soon as possible. Thatch restricts penetration of water, air, and nutrients.

Aerate compacted soil to increase water penetration. Aerating should be done only during the spring months or after fall rains resume.

Proper fertilizer application is important. For advice, consult a nursery, landscape professional or the Washington State University/ Spokane County Cooperative Extension’s Master Gardener Plant Clinic.

Eliminate weeds. They compete with grass and other plant material for water.

Use mulches, such as woven weed barrier, bark, sawdust or compost, to help planting beds retain moisture. Don’t use plastic sheeting. This reduces the amount of water reaching the soil while preventing air from reaching the growing roots of plants.

Make sure your sprinkler system is in good repair. Fix leaks and adjust sprinkler heads to eliminate any overspray on paved areas or buildings. Investigate the source of any unusual runoff, puddling or oversaturated areas.

If you have an automated sprinkler system, make sure the controller is properly set to achieve minimum watering levels. Adjust your controller every couple of weeks in response to changing weather conditions.

When landscaping, include a properly designed and installed irrigation system as a water conservation tool. Automated irrigation systems offer the ultimate in both control and distribution of water.

Consider water consumption when selecting plants. Some plants use more water than others. Consult a good gardening book to determine low water-using plants for your geographical region.

Remember the importance of plant placement. Shade-loving plants will not do well if placed in full sun and will require excessive watering to survive. Place plants of similar water needs in common areas so they can all benefit from the same application of water.

For more information on water efficient plant watering, contact the WSU/Spokane County Cooperative Extension Master Gardener Plant Clinic at 533-2048.

xxxx