Efficient Irrigation System

• Calibrate the irrigation system
• Make sure a rain shut off device is installed and functioning
• Check irrigation system components each month
• Replace or repair damaged heads and valves

Efficient Irrigation

• Separate lawn zones from landscape zones
• Convert landscape beds to micro-irrigation
• Divert sprinklers to avoid spraying water on sidewalks and streets
  

When Do I Water?

• Watering in the early morning is best
• 40% - 60% of water applied during middle of day evaporates!
• No watering between 10:00 am and 4:00 pm

Measure It

1. Place rain gauges or straight-sided cans of equal size randomly throughout the zone
2. Run the zone for 15 minutes
3. Measure the depth of water in each can
4. Average the measurements
5. Calculate time to apply 3/4" of water

How Much?

• Calibrate irrigation zones, then...
• Apply 1/2 to 3/4 inch of water each time
• This wets the soil through the plant root zones
• Watering like this promotes deeper roots, stronger plants and more drought tolerance
  

How Often?

• Water 'as needed,' not routinely: when plants wilt grass blades are folded in evening
• Less often in cool season and rainy season
• Refer to the Sarasota County Maintenance Checklist about seasonal water usage

Water “As Needed”

Folded leaflets, a blue color, and footprints that remain on the lawn are indications of a lawn that needs water.

Dollarweed is a good indication of an over watered lawn.

Too Much Of A Good Thing?

Over watering occurs when water is applied too frequently or in excessive amounts.

• Encourages diseases and weeds
• Promotes a shallow root system
• Decreases drought tolerance
• Causes plant stress
  

Tips on Conserving Water

• Use recycled water or non-potable water
• Direct downspouts toward beds or lawns
• Stimulate deep root growth for better drought tolerance
• Cover pools and hot tubs to prevent evaporation

Rain Barrels

• Collect and use rain water for hand watering
• Rainwater runs off roof into the barrel from the downspout
• A screen fastened over the inlet prevents leaves or insects from entering
  

Cisterns

• Use large tanks to collect and store rainwater
• Cover and screen to exclude debris and pests
• For irrigation use only
• Works well for micro-irrigation
• Use a particulate filter
  

How Often?

• Water 'as needed,' not routinely: when plants wilt grass blades are folded in evening
• Less often in cool season and rainy season
• Refer to the Sarasota County Maintenance Checklist about seasonal water usage

Water “As Needed”

Folded leaflets, a blue color, and footprints that remain on the lawn are indications of a lawn that needs water.