An automatic irrigation system is a valuable asset when caring for your lawn and landscape. Water conservation is more important than ever, and these systems can save a lot when compared to traditional hoses and sprinklers.
Automatic irrigation systems are able to calculate how much, when and where watering is needed, so you can be sure that your lawn, trees and shrubs will always get the right amounts of water at the right times. Plus, extra features like rain shut-off devices, moisture sensors and automatic controllers help to avoid watering waste.
Even if you don't have an irrigation system, there are a few important things to keep in mind when watering your lawn. During the hotter summer months, your lawn will need from 1" to 1 1/2" of water per week, either by rainfall or watering. You can use a rain gauge to determine how much extra water will be needed each week. By soaking your soil to a depth of 6", you’ll help your turf’s roots to grow deeper and stronger.
Your trees and shrubs will also benefit from weekly irrigation when rainfall is scarce. Their roots are much deeper than those of your lawn, so it’s a good idea to soak each area thoroughly with each watering.
When setting up sprinklers, try to avoid letting water run down your driveway, the sidewalk or the street. It’s also important to avoid watering during hotter, windier parts of the day, when chances of evaporation are high (early morning is best).
With or without an irrigation system, proper watering will keep your lawn and landscape green and healthy all summer long!