Take steps now to save water in your landscape this summer.
Given weather patterns for the last few years, we could be heading into another hot, dry summer. Taking steps now can help you save water, and protect your landscape, later.
Check your automatic irrigation system
A little spring maintenance goes a long way with your irrigation system. Here are a few of the most important steps to take.
- Check for leaks. Look for wet spots or puddles and check for cracks in the tubing.
- Inspect and adjust sprinkler heads. Are any heads clogged, missing or damaged?
- Flush your irrigation system annually to clean out debris and keep it running smoothly.
- If your setup is older, consider upgrading to a smart controller that adjusts watering based on weather conditions. You’ll save water and money.
You can learn more in our blog post, It’s time to care for your irrigation system.
Install a drip irrigation system
If you don’t already have an irrigation system, drip irrigation is a smart option. It delivers water directly to plant roots, reducing waste and limiting weed growth. There are many helpful online resources and even occasional hands-on classes to guide you.
- The do-it-yourself guide to backyard irrigation, Utah State University Extension
- The easiest drip irrigation setup for beginners, Oak Abode
- Drip irrigation basics, Rain Bird
- How to install drip irrigation, This Old House
- How to install drip irrigation, Home Depot
Buy an oscillating sprinkler
For lawns, especially square or rectangular lawns, an oscillating sprinkler is a great choice. The back-and-forth motion applies water slowly, allows it to soak in and ensures uniform coverage.
An oscillating sprinkler is also an effective way to water trees slowly and deeply. Position it so it reaches the outer edges of the branches, not just near the trunk. Let it run long enough for water to infiltrate slowly so it reaches the deep roots. This could take a few hours. You can use a soil probe to check how deep the water has penetrated. This is an inexpensive investment that we highly recommend. Learn more by watching our short YouTube video, How to use a soil probe.
Mulch your landscape beds
Mulching your planting beds is one of the simplest ways to save water. A 3-4 inch layer of organic mulch reduces plants’ water needs and helps to keep the soil from drying out, reducing the potential for drought stress. It also suppresses weeds and feeds beneficial soil organisms. Read our blog post about How to use mulch in your yard. If you’d like us to apply mulch for you, we still have room in our spring schedule. Contact us for an appointment.
Keep your soil, lawn and plants healthy
Healthy soil is the foundation of a water-efficient landscape. When your soil, lawn and plants are thriving, they require less water and maintenance to look good. Our natural lawn, tree and shrub care services support soil health using organic methods.
Buy plants that are drought tolerant
When adding new plants this spring, choose drought-tolerant varieties suited to the Pacific Northwest. Great Plant Picks offers several helpful lists of drought-tolerant plants. Just keep in mind that all new plants need regular watering until they’re well established.
Create a drought-tolerant landscape
For a longer-term solution, consider a drought-tolerant landscape design. We can help you create a yard that looks beautiful, meets your family’s needs and uses less water overall. Read more about our sustainable landscape design and installation and take a look at our portfolio.
