IRRIGATION Photo Credits: groworganic.com Irrigationdirect.com gograph.com

HALF OF WATER USED FOR LANDSCAPE IS WASTED DUE TO POOR PRACTICES A 70% reduction in water consumption can be achieved by following these guidelines: Design for efficiency and practicality Proper installation with adequate or better materials Skimping will cost more in the long run in money and corrective efforts Management throughout the irrigation season Adjust for seasonal and shorter term weather changes in temperature and precipitation Troubleshooting, making repairs, and performing maintenance as needed throughout the irrigation season -

Watering Watering with sprinklers on hose – No mist or high in air -- Large drops of water close to ground -- Move on time – don’t over water -- Don’t water in the win Hand watering with nozzle/sprinkler cans -- Use shutoff when moving between plants -- Avoid runoff caused by over watering -- Good option after system seasonal shut down -- Time and patience

TURF IRRIGATION Least efficient Limit turf areas In-ground systems better than hose end Create turf areas w/soil bases 4-5” – Deeper roots – Deeper/less frequent irrigation Plug aeration spring/fall recommended reduces compaction aids water penetration Not for hot weather – stressful Newer improved sprinklers better arc angle & radius adjustments improved water particle delivery More adaptability to non uniform turf areas

PLACEMENT OF SPRINKLERS

SOAKER HOSES Efficient Limited Mulch Deep, infrequent watering Drip line of tree

EMITTER TUBING Emitters embedded in tubing Spacing & gph flow rate variable Adaptable to many different uses

DRIP IRRIGATION Most efficient/adaptable Grouping plants into zones Lower pressures To operate: – clock or battery – water filter – pressure regulator – ½ inch mainline/1/4 inch micro – ½ &1/4 in. fittings/connectors

PLACEMENT OF DRIP LINES

TROUBLE SHOOTING Leaks or clogs Proper coverage Proper output

WHEN? HOW MUCH? New plants Up in spring/down in fall Winter watering Drip schedule Trees

TURF IRRIGATION Depends on: – Depth of permeable soil base – Slope angle and direction – Type of turf

OVERWATERING UNDERWATERING Underwatering – Turf – color/imprint – Broadleaf plants drooping – Foliage discoloring – Appearance in outer and upper areas Overwatering – Poor health/premature death Observation/Corrective Action

IS THERE AN EXACT FORMULA Observation Results sometimes delayed