Use proper equipment
Does your hose feel flimsy or contain lots of kinks? Does water spray from the hose connection to the house? Purchase long hoses made from reinforced rubber. It’s also handy to have a backflow prevention device to prevent possible cross connections between your drinking water supply and a non-potable water source. Use a water nozzle when watering your lawn by hand. It’s more efficient and doesn’t remove topsoil, which can happen if you water using just the hose.

Use a manual sprinkler
Portable sprinklers are easy to use and can be moved around your lawn. If you notice that the water reaches past your driveway or sidewalk, move the sprinkler accordingly.

Use an automatic sprinkler system
Automatic sprinkler systems are a convenient option for watering your lawn. Unfortunately, the convenience makes it easy to set them and forget them. With a bit of planning up front, you can create a conservation-friendly system. Install rain sensors, which override sprinkler systems. Or, better yet, moisture sensors.

Minimize run-off
Our area tends to have heavy, clay soil. Schedule underground sprinklers to start three or four times, dividing the total water time between each start to prevent run-off.

Use a drip irrigation system
A drip irrigation system can conserve up to 300 times more than an underground sprinkler system. If you pay for water, drip irrigation is a great way to keep your water use down, especially during peak times. If you have an existing sprinkler system, cap off the old spray heads and install drip irrigation lines. Drip irrigation is also great for borders, shade gardens, hedges, and vegetable gardens because the flow goes directly to the roots. Why water weeds?

There are a variety of choices for proper lawn care; all are beneficial. Choose the system that best fits your lawn and desired maintenance, then sit back and enjoy the day.

Find more Wise Water Use Tips on our website.