Did you know that since 2005, the Inland Empire Utilities Agency had recognized the month of July as Smart Irrigation Month? To celebrate, here are some tips on how to be water-wise this summer and enjoy the benefits of outdoor irrigation systems.

DIY Irrigation Tips

1. Check your city or Water District’s ordinances for watering schedules and water waste. You don’t want to get caught with run-off or fines for not following the guidelines.
2. Water landscapes for shorter durations, checking for run-off during watering. To determine how much water your plant needs watch for signs of wilting or drooping leaves, curled or yellow leaves, and leaves that lose luster and become grayish or bluish. 
3. Repair all leaks (Contact 5 Star Plumbing to detect and repair) to make sure your system is at its optimal performance.
4. Install drip irrigation, moisture sensors and high efficiency sprinkler nozzles. Pinpointing your water distribution can reduce run-off and water waste tremendously.
5. Divide your yard and gardens into zones, water each zone according to the needs of the plants in that zone.
6. Group similar plants together in your zoned areas – similar watering needs grouped together makes for easier timing of watering.
7. Replace your current irrigation controller with a Smart controller. Smart controllers adjust your watering needs due to weather and landscape types, no need to think about if you set it correctly, it does all the work for you.
8. Use water-efficient plants that will grow well in your area. Look for native plants at your local nursery as they thrive best in your environment.
9. Water older plants (planted in your garden for 1 season or more) less frequently than new plants. Older plants can be watered just below the root zone, whereas some newer plants may need to be watered daily to keep from wilting.
10. Avoid summer planting. If you are planning on converting your yard or gardens to water-friendly versions autumn or spring are the best time to do so.
11. Maintain a 2-3” layer of mulch on top of the soil around your plants and trees. However, keep the mulch away from tree trunks.
12. Water early in the morning as evaporation is low and it is less likely to be windy. 
13. Make sure to weed out the weeds. They will compete with your plants for that precious water, and invasive weeds and plants can wreak havoc. 
14. Fertilize your plants only if you see signs of nutrient deficiency, too much can be a bad thing causing weak growth and a need for more water.
    

Sprinkler Plumbing in Redlands, CA

A poorly installed irrigation system can waste as much as 50% of the water we use outdoors. To check that your system is installed correctly, or to make corrections that decrease your water consumption contact us at 5 Star Plumbing today. You will be enjoying your outdoors in no time.