Outdoor Water Conservation Tips

Do not waste water

Stop watering when puddles form or runoff occur. This allows for sufficient water penetration into the soil.

Water your lawn only when needed

Step on the grass; if it springs back up when you remove your foot, the lawn does not need water.

Spot water the lawn

Drier areas of the lawn may require more water than other areas, where water settles. If necessary, water dry areas by hand.

Use a soil probe to test soil moisture

Water only when a soil probe indicates the soil is dry or it is difficult to push a screwdriver into the soil.

Don't water the pavement

Position sprinklers so that water lands on the lawn or garden, not in areas where it is not needed. Also avoid watering when it is windy. Wind causes water to evaporate quickly and blows water onto areas where it is not needed. Remember, if it doesn't grow, don't water it!

Use shut-off nozzles on hoses

Shut-off nozzles completely turn off the water when you are not using it.

Don't let the water run while washing the car

Get the car wet, then turn off the water while you soap the car down using a bucket of soapy water. Turn on the water again for a final rinse. Use the bucket of soapy water on the flower bed or garden.

Automatic sprinkler systems save time and water

An automatic sprinkler system can be set to water the lawn for a specified amount of time. This saves your time and waters the lawn evenly. If you don't have an automatic sprinkling system, set a kitchen timer. A lot of water can be wasted in a short period of time if you forget to turn your sprinklers off. Outdoor faucets can flow at rates as high as 300 gallons per hour.

Use a broom to clean the driveway and sidewalk

Sweeping the driveway and sidewalk will get them clean enough without wasting gallons of water.

Consider drip irrigation systems around trees and shrubs

Drip systems permit water to flow slowly to roots, encouraging strong root systems. These systems will also cut down evaporation.

Mow as infrequently as possible

Mowing puts the grass under additional stress that requires more water.

Mow higher than normal

Longer leaf surfaces promote deeper rooting and shade the root zone. Never remove more than 1/3 of the leaf blade in one mowing. Return mulched clippings to the lawn.

Accept a less than lush lawn

Grass will naturally go dormant during periods of drought, but will readily regenerate when water becomes available. Reduce traffic on stressed turf areas if possible.

Keep lawn free of weeds

Weeds are water thieves and will rob your plants of water and nutrients. Spot spray or remove weeds as they appear.

Match fertilizer to the plant requirement

Fertilizer applications require additional water. Excess fertilizer stimulates top growth, often to the detriment of the root system. Learn to accept turf grasses with low water needs.

Check for leaks in pipes, hoses, and faucets

All leaks cause water to be wasted. Repair or replace any equipment leaking water.