LANDSCAPE [OUTDOOR TIPS]
#94 Read the Landscape Watering by the Numbers guidebook to help you determine how long and how much to water.
#95 Use a trowel, shovel, or soil probe to examine soil moisture depth. If the top two to three inches of soil are dry, it's time to water.
#96 Set a kitchen timer when using the hose as a reminder to turn it off. A running hose can discharge up to 10 gallons per minute.
#97 Check your sprinkler system frequently and adjust sprinklers so only your lawn is watered and not the house, sidewalk or street.
#98 Minimize evaporation by watering during the early morning hours when temperatures are cooler and winds are lighter.
#99 Timing is everything when it comes to irrigation. Learn how to set your controller properly.
#100 Look for WaterSense® labeled irrigation controllers.
#101 Learn how to shut off your automatic watering system in case of malfunctions or rain.
#102 Apply water only as fast as the soil can absorb it.
#103 If water runs off your lawn easily, split your watering time into shorter periods to allow for better absorption.
#104 Water only when necessary. More plants die from over-watering than from under-watering.
#105 Signs of overwatering: Leaves turn lighter shades of green or yellow, young shoots wilt, and sometimes algae or fungi grow.
#106 Adjust your watering schedule each month to match seasonal weather conditions and landscape requirements.
#107 Install a rain sensor on your irrigation controller so your system won't run when it's raining.
#108 Water dry spot by hand instead of running the whole irrigation system longer.
#109 Don't water your lawn on windy days when most of the water blows away or evaporates.
#110 Use drip irrigation for shrubs and trees to apply water directly to the roots, where it's needed.
#111 Water your plants deeply but less frequently to encourage deep root growth and drought tolerance.
#112 Use sprinklers that deliver big drops of water close to the ground. Smaller drops and mist often evaporate before hitting the ground.
#113 Use a rain barrel to harvest rainwater from gutters for watering gardens and landscapes.
#114 For hanging baskets, planters and pots, put ice cubes on top of the soil to give your plants a cool drink of water without overflow.
#115 Remember to periodically check your sprinkler system valves for leaks, and to keep sprinkler heads in good shape.
#116 Spring is a great time to give your irrigation system a checkup to ensure it's working efficiently.
#117 Pruning properly can help your plants use water more efficiently.