FAQ

Despite what the snow-covered peaks might indicate, we do not have as much water as those who live in most other states. Without supplemental water, many of our non native plants and turf grasses would dry up and die.

In water short years, here are some tips for conservation:

* Automated sprinkler systems make watering convenient for most gardeners. Once we figure out the electronic puzzle, we can become Mother Nature, controlling the elements within our own realm. What we sometimes forget is that we are not as wise as Mother Nature so we neglect checking the watering system to make sure it is in harmony with our plants. Few plants, other than water lilies and a few bog plants, actually enjoy being watered every day.
* Contrary to popular belief, grass is not a bog plant. Grass actually does best with extended periods between watering. Many lawns in our area are still flood irrigated once a week, and they look great.
* It is true that when a lawn is first established and the roots are shallow, it needs constant attention and moisture. However, as the grass begins to grow the roots stretch further into the soil, eventually reaching depths of more than 10 inches. Sometimes plants have to be trained to grow deeper roots by slowly extending the period of time between watering from one day to two, and then three, etc. Roots develop wherever they find water and nutrients. Watering every day doesn't encourage the roots to stretch and grow because the water is always available right at the surface. Then, if the water is cut off for a day, the plants begin showing signs of drying. Unfortunately our first response is to turn on the hose and try to revive what we think is dying grass.
* The best response is to let the lawn struggle a little to grow. The best time to do this is in the spring. As the weather warms, instead of increasing the frequency of watering, increase the amount of water applied when watering. The grass will not die, but will become healthier as the roots extend into the soil.
* and die if not watered on a constant basis. Lawns in sandy soil can still go three or four days between watering, but the roots need to be trained to adapt. There are lawns in sandy soil that are flood irrigated once every week and they look great. It just depends on how well you train the lawn.
* After watering once, go out and check to determine how deeply the water is penetrating. Grab a long screw driver and push it into the lawn. It will easily slide through wet soil, but will stop and become difficult to push once it hits dry ground. Mark this spot on the screw driver with your finger and pull it out. Measure the depth it extended into the soil. This indicates the level water is penetrating the soil.