Being Water Efficient with Your Yard
It’s estimated that the average U.S. household uses 96 gallons of water daily towards watering their lawns and gardens. As much as 50% of that landscape irrigation is wasted due to inefficient watering methods.
Classically, there are two ways to do irrigation:
- With a hose and sprinkler
- Automatic underground irrigation
Modern irrigation systems are your best bet for water efficient, cost-effective watering. A well-designed, modern irrigation system can save both water and money. Spray heads and rotors are good for lawns. Drip irrigation systems and soaker hoses work well in planting beds. Drip systems in particular are great because they put water only where you want it. But even with a good system, you can still waste water.
The easiest watering fixes happen through observation. Ask yourself:
- Are your sprinklers positioned for maximum coverage?
Suncrest Landscape, Inc. plans the positioning of sprinkler heads for maximum efficiency and minimum waste. - Are the sidewalks near your lawn saturated after watering your lawn?
Position your sprinkler heads so that only the lawn and plants are watered. - Is your lawn and/or garden receiving too much (or too little) water?
Here’s an easy test for lawn health. Step on a patch of grass. If it springs back, it’s healthy and doesn’t need water. Overwatering plants and trees can lead to rot, decay and death. Suncrest Landscape, Inc. is both knowledgeable and familiar with the different types of plants’ and grasses’ watering needs.
- What time of day do you water?
Both heat and wind can lead to evaporation and poor soil moisture. Water in the early morning when the sun is still low, if not down. There are even smart sensors that adjust the flow of water depending on rainfall or the moisture of the soil. - How often and long do you water?
Plants and grass get more out of short bursts of watering, such as 5 minute intervals three times per day, versus one, long 15 minute water. Whatever type of watering that you select, using a timer will make your watering more efficient. - How’s your soil health?
Adding new soil annually, as well as aerating your lawn helps your soil to retain water and encourage plant growth. Mulch around plants also helps to protect soil moisture, preventing evaporation and lowering the temperature of the soil. Shade trees are an excellent addition in landscaping to help protect soil moisture.
From initial grading to plant selection and placement, being efficient with your watering requires planning. At Suncrest Landscape, Inc. we have a specialized understanding of modern irrigation principles, technology and techniques. We first consider your specific environmental needs, from El Dorado Hills to Citrus Heights, throughout the Greater Sacramento area. Plants and grasses are selected that match and work with the climate, as well as the grade of the land. We group plants with similar watering needs in the same ‘zone’ to be more efficient in our watering design. Once your system is up and running, regular maintenance will help ensure that your irrigation is both sufficient and efficient.
Contact us for a free quote on improving your lawn’s water efficiency. At Suncrest Landscape, Inc., we work on one project at a time so that you have our complete and undivided attention.