Smart Watering Tips

Most homeowners overwater their lawn and garden. By watering correctly, you’ll use less water and have a beautiful, healthy lawn and garden.

Waterwise Tip #1: Water in the early morning to reduce evaporation

• Water between the hours of 4am and 8am.
• This will cut evaporation, saving you money and conserving water.

Waterwise Tip #2: Switch from overhead sprinklers to soaker hoses 

• Soaker hoses conserve water by dripping water right to the roots of the plant.
• Snake the soaker hose throughout the garden placing it about a foot away from the base of shrubs.

Waterwise Tip #3: Adjust timers on automatic sprinklers

• Most sprinklers are programmed to water too often. Set your timer to water longer for a deep watering
• You want to water until right before you start to see run off
• If plants show signs of stress such as wilting or yellowing add another watering to your schedule

Waterwise Tip #4: Use water wands with a trigger

• When watering container gardens, hanging baskets or other small areas use a water wand with a trigger.
• Allows you to water only the plants and not the pavement or ground between plants.
• Make sure to water each plant thoroughly so water penetrates to the root system.

Waterwise Tip #5: Reduce lawn watering

• Most homeowners water their lawns too much. Reduce your total watering by as much as 50% - your lawn will be healthier and just as lush and green.
• This may mean skipping one lawn watering each week.
• Never restart the entire automatic watering cycle to water a dry patch - select the appropriate station and run manually.

Waterwise Tip #6: Mulch to conserve soil moisture

• Using mulch in your garden reduces weed germination, retains moisture and reduces the need for watering.
• There are a variety of mulches to fit the look you’d like
  • Cedar Mulch
  • Colored Mulch
  • Pine Bark

Waterwise Tip #7: Adjust watering seasonally

• Adjust the time and frequency of automatic sprinklers seasonally.
• Turn automatic sprinkler system off during rainy periods.

Check with your city for specific watering guidelines and rebate programs.