🌞 Smart Irrigation Tips for Beating the Summer Heat

💧 Drip Irrigation

Drip irrigation is one of the most efficient watering methods for summer landscaping. It delivers water directly to the base of each plant, reducing evaporation and keeping foliage dry (which helps prevent disease).

Benefits of drip irrigation:

• Uses up to 50% less water than traditional sprinklers

• Reduces weed growth by targeting plant roots only

• Prevents water waste from runoff or wind

Pro tip: Use a timer to schedule drip irrigation early in the morning—before 9 AM—for the best absorption.

🕗 Stick to a Watering Schedule

Timing is everything when it comes to watering in the heat. Watering during the hottest part of the day means most of it will evaporate before it can soak in. And watering at night can invite fungus and disease.

Best times to water:

• Early morning: Ideal for lawns and gardens

• Late afternoon (before sunset): A second chance if you missed the morning

Avoid midday watering when the sun is strongest.

🌱 Group Plants by Water Needs

Not all plants need the same amount of water. Grouping them by their water requirements—also called hydrozoning—makes your irrigation system much more efficient.

Examples:

• High-water plants: Hydrangeas, ferns, impatiens

• Low-water plants: Foxtail ferns, agapanthus, lantana

• Medium: Turf grass, most shrubs

This way, you don’t end up overwatering drought-tolerant plants or underwatering thirsty ones.

💦 Use Mulch to Retain Moisture

A thick layer of mulch (2–3 inches) around your plants helps regulate soil temperature and retain moisture—meaning you don’t have to water as often.

Bonus: Mulch also helps suppress weeds and adds organic nutrients to your soil.

🧠 Consider a Smart Irrigation Controller

A smart controller adjusts your watering schedule automatically based on local weather conditions, soil moisture, and even plant type.

Features to look for:

• Rain shut-off sensors

• App-based scheduling and alerts

• Zone-specific programming

Smart irrigation can save up to 30% more water compared to traditional timers.

🌿 A Healthier Yard, the Smarter Way

Keeping your landscape lush during the summer doesn’t have to mean higher water bills or wasted resources. By adopting smarter irrigation habits—like using drip systems, watering at the right times, and upgrading your tech—you can beat the heat and still keep your yard beautiful.