2015 DROUGHT UPDATE
With insufficient rainfall and snowpack statewide this past winter the drought continues into the fourth year. Recently, Governor
Brown has mandated a 25% reduction in water use throughout the state. Action items will be decided on in May with
implementation in June. We should all applaud San Diego County for our conservation efforts and securing reliable sources of
water. Hopefully, that will be taken into account with decisions on additional restrictions.
Lawn Doctor is your lawn drought specialist. Our customers who monitor sprinkler schedules closely report they use 15% to 20% less lawn water by
having our service. We are currently working on new strategies and technologies to help further. Rest assured we will be able to keep your lawn alive
even with additional restrictions. The following is a summary of lawn watering restriction possibilities and what to expect with tips to reduce
lawn/landscape water use and get through the drought to protect the investment in your property.
The current restriction of watering landscapes three times per week is sufficient for a healthy lawn. If further restrictions require
two days per week the lawn may exhibit some stress but will still be reasonably healthy. If extreme restrictions limit water to one
day per week we can still keep the lawn alive with perhaps some damage that can easily be repaired once rain returns. The
bottom line is there is no need to panic or give up on your lawn unless you choose to do so. It may help to know the
tremendous environmental benefits of turfgrass (and landscaping) especially cleaning and cooling our air. Click on this link for
more information: The Lawn Institute.
IN ADDITION TO LAWN DOCTOR SERVICES THERE ARE OTHER THINGS YOU CAN DO TO HELP WITH LANDSCAPE WATER CONSERVATION.
1. First and foremost, make sure your irrigation system is in a good state of repair: Leaks and/or poor distribution wastes
water and creates increased need to achieve the desired results. On the other hand, a system in good operating
condition saves water. It may be a good time for a “tune-up”. Head-to-head sprinkler coverage is essential to
minimizing the effects of water restrictions!
2.
Upgrade sprinkler nozzles to the newer efficiency models that save water. The added benefit is their exemption from
the current time limitation for each watering cycle. Also, there are rebates which keep the cost low.
3.
Landscape areas generally require less frequent water than lawn areas: The general rule is landscape plants should
be watered about half as often as lawns unless there is a special need. Use a separate program on the irrigation
controller for areas with different need. Everything on the same schedule wastes water. Schedule each sprinkler
station according to actual need: each lawn and landscape has varying needs based on the type of plants and
growing conditions. Schedule differently for areas of sun vs. shade, small plants vs. trees and newer vs. mature
plants. This saves water and is healthier for the plants too.
4.
Update your mowing practices: most lawns in our area are tall fescue grass and often mowed too short. The proper
mow height is a minimum of 3 inches. This allows for a thicker and healthier lawn but also reduces water loss by
shading soil. If the lawn should become stressed then also mow less often. Mowers should “grass cycle” or mulch the
grass clippings back onto the lawn which also contributes to lawn health. Grass clippings should never end up in the
landfills. If you have a gardener, make sure they know this!
5.
Finally, consider eliminating unused or impractical areas of lawn such as sides of driveway or down the back side of
the house where nobody ever goes. Add mulch to landscape areas to retain moisture. Reduce edging to keep thick
grass up to the very edge of the lawn. There should be no exposed soil in and around the lawn and landscape.
At Lawn Doctor, we care about saving water and helping our customers have healthy and beautiful lawns. These two things can go hand in hand with
just a little effort and the benefits are great. If you have any questions or would like more information about these water saving tips please contact me.
Mike Chrisman, Owner
Lawn Doctor
P.S. Click on the link for your water district for the latest drought restrictions.
www.sawaterco.com
www.fontanawater.com
www.cvwdwater.com/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=62
http://ci.upland.ca.us/asp/Site/PublicWorks/Utilities/Water/index.asp
www.ci.ontario.ca.us/index.aspx?page=1374
Fallbrook Public Utility District
http://www.cityofchino.org/residents