Seasonal Guidance for Water Wise Irrigation

Turn water off unless no rain predicted for month; adjustment setting = 0%

Let soil dry before turning water on again

Start using your irrigation controller on a regular basis unless it's raining.

This is an active growth period; water deeply to allow plant roots to grow deep; but water infrequently and let soil dry before next watering.

Adding a rain sensor to your irrigation controller will allow the system to automatically (but only temporarily) shut off when it rains.

Regular watering usually required, but less watering needed if fog lingers or weather is overcast.

Allow water to soak in slowly in order to avoid run-off onto paved surfaces.

"Cycle" the irrigation timers to turn on twice (one hour apart) on each watering day, with each cycle set at ½ of the total time for a single watering.

Highest levels of watering probably required at this time of year. Your watering schedule for July/August constitutes the "100%" amount for your watering adjustment factor, which can be changed weekly based on the "Weekly Percent Adjust" on www.WaterWiseSB.org

Water only in early morning hours (before mid-morning); divide watering time into 2 cycles one hour apart on each watering day.

Less water is required for established plants, water wise plants, and/or native plants which are accustomed to dry summers.

Less water needed for established trees/shrubs; more water for young plants.

Plants' water needs drop due to shorter days and cooler temperatures.

But dry winds, often occurring in fall, can dry out plants & soil, thus requiring more water. Weekly Percent Adjust accounts for all weather factors.

Plants shift to dormant phase; their water needs drop.

Lower evaporation means less water needed.