Proper irrigation methods
As the demand for water increases, let's not forget to conserve water through proper irrigation. Improper irrigation invites disease, increases the need for fertilizer and waste water. Here are some easy things to remember when irrigating.
An efficient watering program must include three basic steps:
1. Determining when water is needed.
2. Determining how much should be applied.
3. Deciding how water is to be applied.Determining when to water
The most efficient way to water a lawn is to apply water when it begins to show signs of stress from lack of water. The following signs are indications of water need:
Bluish-gray areas in the lawn
Footprints or tire tracks that remain in the grass long after being made
Many leaf blades folded in half
Soil sample from the root zone feels dry
Amount of water to apply
The amount of water to apply at any one time varies with the amount of water present in the soil, the water-holding capacity of the soil, and drainage characteristics. An efficient watering wets only the turf grass rootzone, does not saturate the soil, and does not allow water to run off. Florida soils are typically sandy and hold 1 inch of water in the top 12 inches of soil. Most plant roots are in the upper 12 inches of the soil. If the roots are in the top 12 inches of soil and the soil is dry, then ¾ to 1 inch of water is required to wet the area thoroughly. This is equivalent to 465 to 620 gallons of water for each 1000 square feet of lawn.Generally, turf grasses require no more than 0.3 inches of water per day. Under extreme summer conditions, water use can be as high as 0.4 inches of water per day. During the winter when grasses are not actively growing, water use can be as little as 0.05 inches of water per day.
A simple watering schedule would be to apply ¾ inch of water when the turf grasses show water deficiency symptoms as discussed earlier. Once this ¾ inch of water is applied, do not apply any more until water stress symptoms are again noticeable. Typically, two to three waterings per week in the summer and once every 10 to 14 days in the winter are required. If rainfall occurs, irrigation should be suspended according to the rainfall amount.
Manner of applying water
Water should never be applied at a rate faster than it can be absorbed by the soil. If the sprinkler applies too much water, it runs off, and is wasted. This seldom happens with small sprinklers unless the lawn is thick or the soil compacted.Avoid extremes in watering frequency and amount. Light, frequent watering is inefficient and encourages shallow root systems . Excessive irrigation, which keeps the root system saturated with water, is harmful to the lawn. Roots need a balance of water and air to function and grow properly.
The time of watering is important. The best time for lawn irrigation is in the early morning hours.
Watering during the day can waste water by excessive evaporation and during very hot periods can scald the lawn. Watering in late afternoon or late morning may be detrimental if it extends the time the lawn is naturally wet from dew. Lawn irrigation should be scheduled to avoid peak residential water demand if using municipal water.
Abide by all Water Conservation Ordinances.
Prepared by David Griffis
University of Florida Volusia County Extension
386-822-5778; 257-6012; 423-3368To report watering violations call:
(386) 943-7059, ext 5925 (from West Volusia)
(386) 248-8115, ext 5925 (from Daytona Beach)
(386) 424-6815, ext 5925 (from New Smyrna Beach)
or email ckerrigan@co.volusia.fl.us
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