Ten Ways to Save Water

Water is the lifeblood of all plants, including turfgrass. But many Florida homeowners aren't aware that watering their lawns too much can be as damaging as not watering enough. These ten Florida-Friendly tips will help you save water in your landscape.

1. Choose the right plant for the right place

All plants must get the right amount of sun, water, and nutrients to thrive—even natives.

• Select plants suited for your area
• Place plants in the landscape where site conditions match their needs
• Group plants with similar water needs together

2. Water thoughtfully

A drop here and a drop there can add up to a lot of water.

• Always follow water restrictions
• Water early in the morning
• Irrigate plants and grass only when they start to wilt

3. Handwater when possible

Handwatering is usually allowed during water restrictions, because it uses less water than an automatic irrigation system.

• Use a watering can, pail, or hose with an automatic shutoff nozzle
• Handwater potted plants, shrubs, trees, vegetables, and flower beds, and new lawns
• See if your water management district (WMD) limits handwatering

4. Perform regular irrigation maintenance

An irrigation system is only as efficient as it’s maintained to be.

• Check for and repair leaks
• Unclog and replace broken heads
• Point heads at plants, not driveways and sidewalks

5. Calibrate irrigation system

Even an efficient irrigation system can waste water if it’s left on for too long. The ideal amount of water to apply is 1/2 to 3/4 inches. Figure out how long to run your system by doing a test:

• Place multiple coffee/tuna/other straight-sided cans throughout each irrigation zone
• Run your system for thirty minutes
• Average the depth of the water in all the containers
• Multiply running time as needed for 1/2 to 3/4 inches of water

• Next: Mulching, mowing, and more

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