JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Not only do lawns soak up more water than every other plant in your yard, but according to Consumer Reports, homeowners tend to overwater their grass and keep it green. An established lawn needs only one inch of water per week in the growing season. Pouring on the water can actually harm your turf and your budget. Here are some ways to save.
Let the grass grow longer by raising your lawn mower's cutting height. Longer blades of grass help shade each other, reducing evaporation. Stop fertilizing; it only promotes new growth. When you mow, leave the grass clippings on the lawn to retain moisture.
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Don't wash off your driveway, steps, or deck with water. Sweep them instead or use a leaf blower. If you use a sprinkler, direct the spray to the grass and garden and not the sidewalk and street. Wash your car with water from a bucket or go to a commercial car wash that recycles water.
When it rains, collect the water in barrels. You can also install gutters and down spouts that direct the runoff to your plants and trees.
Reduce the size of your lawn. Consider replacing grass with mulch, ground cover, drought-tolerant plants or ornamental grasses. Weeds compete with other plants for water so weed regularly. And ditch the water features unless they use recycled water.
If watering is permitted, use soaker hoses or drip irrigation to apply water slowly and evenly. Buy a hose nozzly with an automatic shut-off. Water early in the day when evaporation rates are low and more water is absorbed.