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Water Quest - Outdoor Watering
Water Quest - Outdoor Watering 7/19/12
July 19, 2012
CBS 7 News
Communities across the Permian Basin have different limitations for outdoor watering. But whether you can use your sprinkler system or you have to water by hand, we all make some common mistakes. In this week's Water Quest report, we talk with conservationist Wendy Gordon about the best ways to care for your yard.
Until recently, many west Texans watered their yards every day.
Gordon says, “If you're watering too much, it doesn't really help the plants."
That's why many cities across Texas have put restrictions in place.
"Typically, what you're seeing in a lot of places is watering your yard two twice a week."
Over-watering may be the first mistake but their are other common pitfalls.
"Plants grow over time so the sprinkler system you installed may not be functioning effectively or efficiently.”
Conservationist Wendy Gordon recommends running a cycle and looking at how your sprinkler heads are functioning..
"Do they need to be raised? Do they need to be moved? Or maybe you need to trim back plants?"
Gordon says you should always water when the sun is down. And many people choose the middle of the night. But that also comes with potential problems.
"If your sprinkler system is broken in any fashion, you're not going to know it because, presumably, it's running while you're sleeping."
But for those who cannot run their sprinkler systems, the best choice may be soaker hoses.
"Soaker hoses are actually the bulls eye, in terms of being effective for watering and irrigation systems."
These hoses drip water which flows directly to the soil, eliminating the possibility of spraying in the wrong places.
Water Quest is a free resource for the entire Permian Basin.
If you have questions go to www.waterquest.org. or call them at 432-580-5722.