Get the most out of your Lawn Watering

You can water less frequently and still have a healthy lawn by watering only when it is needed, and by applying the right amount of water to promote deep root growth. Each time you water your grass, you should apply enough water to penetrate to a soil depth of 6-10 inches. Typically, ¾" of water applied to the surface will penetrate 8-inches into the soil. To determine how long to run your sprinklers to apply ¾" of water you need to perform a one-time can test. Request our free guide titled Landscape Watering by the Numbers: A Guide for the Arizona Desert for easy instructions. Here are some other suggestions to get the most out of your sprinkler system.

Make sure system is well designed

Don't mix sprinkler head types on the same valve. For example, don't mix pop-up sprinkler heads with rotor style heads. Also check that sprinkler heads are flush with the soil surface and straight, not tilted.

Don't water too frequently

Remember to change the timer as the seasons change. Generally, watering once every three days is all that a Bermuda lawn needs during the hot summer months. Bermuda lawns can be watered much less often during the winter months unless overseeded with winter rye grass.

Irrigate in early morning

With sprinklers, water in the early morning - about one to three hours before sunrise. That way more water gets to the roots instead of evaporating due to the sun and wind.

Avoid runoff

If water runs off your yard during the irrigation cycle, then split the watering cycle into two or three short cycles about 1 hour apart. This allows the water to soak into the soil instead of running off into the street.

Check system performance

It is very common for sprinklers to get out of adjustment or misdirected. This can create a great deal of water waste and can damage structures and pavement. Check the condition of your sprinkler heads frequently, especially after you've mowed. Also be sure to clear grass, plants and other obstructions that block sprinkler spray.

Immediately repair leaky pipes

Repair broken or leaky sprinkler heads, valves and other equipment as soon as you notice them.

For more information on getting the most out of your lawn watering, request our free guide titled Landscape Watering by the Numbers: A Guide for the Arizona Desert.

Getting the most out of your Lawn Watering