Water Awarness Committee of Monterey County
 

The Water Awareness Committee of Monterey County, Inc.
P. O. Box 3254
Salinas, CA 93912

Email WAC

Water Hotline
(831) 646-4656

 

This Winter Be Water Wise
Turn Off Your Irrigation Controller

The onset of winter provides a great opportunity to reduce landscape water use. Plant water needs are so minimal this time of year that in many cases irrigation controllers can and should be turned off.

Cooler soil and air temperatures along with shorter days that slow growth dramatically reduce plant and turfgrass requirements for water. In addition, soils loose less water to evaporation during the winter and when you factor in periodic rainfall, watering during a typical winter is almost always unnecessary.

During extended dry periods there may be an occasional need to water. This can usually be accomplished with manual operation. Just be sure to return your controller to the off position when weather conditions change.

So this winter, do your part and be water smart!

Water Wise Strategies for Winter Watering and Irrigation
  • Utilize automated control systems
  • Install rain / moisture shut off devices
  • Water early in the morning to minimize the effects of wind and evaporation
  • Water deeply and infrequently to encourage deeper rooting
  • Avoid irrigation during the winter months
  • Raise cutting heights to maximize water conservation
  • Select drought avoidance varieties – such as Tall fescue
  • Avoid turf in long narrow areas, which are difficult to irrigate efficiently
  • Establish individual watering zones for turf and other landscapes areas
  • Utilize repeat or soak cycles to minimize runoff

 

 
Lawn & Garden Forecast

Know when and how much to water your garden based on the weather. Just enter your Zip Code for a 10-day forecast. Click here

Receive a FREE GardenSoft® CD-ROM!

This is an interactive software program designed to help you create your own water-wise landscape. Features include design ideas, photo galleries, plant lists, irrigation tips and more! Receive a FREE Water-Wise Gardening in Monterey County CD-ROM by calling
(831) 646-4656
or emailing.

Copyright 2010 Water Awareness Committee of Monterey County. All Rights Reserved.