Out
On A Limb / June 2006
Water, Water Everywhere–Or Not
Although homeowners and gardeners tend to over water their lawns and landscaping, new watering habits can easily be established that save water, prevent runoff and create a healthy lawn and landscape. The Irrigation Association suggests a few simple changes to save money and create efficient, effective irrigation.
Water at the optimum time-when the sun is low or down, and when winds are calm and temperatures are cool to reduce evaporation. As much as 30 percent of water can be lost to evaporation by watering mid-day.
Water only when needed. Water deeply enough to saturate root zones and let the soil dry. Watering too frequently results in shallow roots, weed growth, disease and fungal invasions.
Adapt the watering schedule to the weather and the season. If an irrigation system is in place, become familiar with the settings on the irrigation controller and adjust the schedule regularly for current weather conditions.
Water requirements vary depending on the type of sprinkler, sun or shade exposure, plant and soil type. The same watering schedule almost never applies to all zones in the system or all parts of the yard. Brown spots can be a sign that portions of the yard are being under watered or over watered.
Adjust sprinkler heads and make sure they are pointed in the right direction. Correct obstructions that prevent sprinklers from distributing water evenly and make sure heads are properly set to avoid watering pavement or buildings, creating unnecessary runoff.
Consider low-volume drip or micro irrigation for plant beds, gardens, trees or shrubs. Low-volume irrigation slowly releases small amounts of water, minimizing evaporation, runoff and overspray and put water exactly where the plant can use it.
Copyright © 2005-2006 A Woman's View. All rights reserved.
Femme Fair 2006
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