5 ways to save water during the California drought

Even though the severe California drought has many looking for new ways of conserving water – like replacing outdoor lawns with drought-resistant turf – some homeowners want to keep their lush, green lawn. These tips are for you.

1. Water at appropriate times.
The best times to water your lawn are before sunrise and after sunset. By programming your system to water before and after the heat of the day, you can ensure that less water is being evaporated and your lawn receives as much irrigation as possible.

2. Do a test run.
Before you program your system, try running each watering zone briefly during daylight hours to see how your system is operating. Make sure water is only falling where it is needed, and check for misting or fogging above the sprinklers; this means they are over-pressurized and wasting water. Note your observations and adjust the system as needed.

3. Utilize smart water technology.
Toro WaterSmart® products like the Precision™ Soil Sensor ensure that water only reaches your turf when necessary, which maximizes the efficiency of your entire irrigation system and prevents water waste from occurring. You can also retrofit your spray nozzles for a smarter sprinkler system.

4. Adjust your lawnmower.
It’s a fact: Mowing your lawn too short can cause it to dry out faster. By adjusting your lawnmower to leave the grass 1.5 to 2 inches tall, you can reduce the amount of water your grass will need. This creates less evaporation, which in the end, will require less water.

5. Recycle water.
Instead of using fresh hose water for your plants, recycle water throughout the day. While you’re waiting for your shower to warm up, collect the cold water and use it for your plants. When boiling macaroni or potatoes, use the excess water for your plants instead of dumping it down the sink.

Remember: we can all play our part to help offset the California drought.