Tips for Lawn watering-July is Smart Irrigation Month

The month of July reminds me why I love living on the Puget Sound! Clear blue skies and sparkles on the water - the best place in the world. Temperatures in the 80's are a treat; but, when I returned home last night from my 4th of July mini-vacation, the first nagging thought I had was about by plants needing water. I think everyone shares this unease when the temperatures rise a bit. This is why July is designated as Smart Irrigation Month.

Some people eliminate the watering chore by putting in automatic irrigation systems. Perfect scenario if the system is scheduled correctly - a real water waster if not. Automatic sprinkler systems increase water use by 50%, especially if lawns are being irrigated.

• Watering lawns every two or three days if plenty. Your veggie garden probably needs watering daily, but your lawn does not.
• Learn about your irrigation system. Read the manual.
  
• There is a powerful button on most irrigation controllers. It's called the percent button. Your irrigation system is most likely set for the hottest time of year. When the weather is a little cooler, turn the system down by decreasing the percent of irrigation to 50% or lower.
• Please, don't be one of those people who have their system running in the rain or drizzle. It is embarrassing. Attach a rain sensor to your system. If you are a KPUD customer, they are free!
• Set your system to drench the roots and then let the soil dry out. This will result in a lawn with healthy roots.
• If you hire an irrigation contractor, ask if he or she is trained in efficient irrigation. Professional training is available through your Kitsap water purveyor association, WaterPAK.
  

Enjoy the hot weather without watering guilt, but make sure you are using watering technology efficiently.