Spring is the Time to Think about Saving Water

Stephanie Duer, Water Conservation Coordinator

Salt Lake City Department of Public Utilities

Spring 2004

Even in a regular year, we typically get only 15 inches of precipitation, which means using water out of doors to maintain our landscapes. There are things we can do now in the spring that will help prepare our gardens for the heat of summer. And for those times we do have to irrigate, there are things we can do so that we use water out of doors more efficiently. Following these actions will help to make our gardens thrive, and our water supply go farther.  

In the Landscape

To plant or not to plant? That is the question on the lips of many homeowners this season. The best advice is to plant new landscapes in the spring and fall when the weather is cool and plants have lower water demands. Even without the drought, planting during the cooler times of the year reduces stress to the plant, as well as for the person digging the hole.

There are additional things we can do to reduce water demand in both established and new landscapes, drought or not.

• Select plants that are appropriate for the region. Our summers are hot and dry, and winters are cold with little snow cover, so plants need to be tough to survive. But that doesn’t mean only spiny things will grow here; just take a walk in one of our canyons and you will find glossy mahonia, lush native maples, and vivid wildflowers. For a list of plants well suited to our gardens and for a listing of one of the many classes being offered throughout the area, visit our web site at www.slcsaveh2o.com.

• Group plants with similar water and light demands. Not all plants have the same needs for water or sun. By grouping plants with similar needs together, you will save not only water, but lessen the frustration that comes with having plants fail because they are over or under watered, or not getting the right light.

• Design and install efficient irrigation systems. Irrigation systems only save time and water if they are designed and installed properly from the beginning. According to the American Water Works Association, households with automatic timers use 47 percent more water out of doors than households without, mostly because timers are not reset with seasonal changes. For help in creating a seasonal watering schedule and for a free irrigation check, call 1-877-SAVEH2O.

Designing the system to water different areas separately also helps to save water. Make certain the lawn is watered separately from other plants so that the whole garden isn’t over watered just to meet the needs of the lawn. Perennial borders, shrub areas, vegetable gardens, and trees usually require less water than lawn and should all be watered independently. Also, separate irrigation zones for trees and shrubs ensure that you can continue to water those garden investments even if you can’t water your lawn. Shady areas or spaces sheltered from winds by buildings may need less water than those in full sun. Designing a system to accommodate those micro-climates saves water and enhances plant health.

• Maintain irrigation systems to optimal efficiency. New or old, all irrigation systems benefit from proper and regular maintenance. At least once a month—perhaps when you get your water bill—turn on your irrigation system and check for misaligned, broken, or missing sprinkler heads, and make the appropriate repairs. Check to see that the sprinkler heads are spraying plants and not drives, streets, and walks.
• Add Mulch. Adding a layer of mulch or compost three to four inches thick around trees, shrubs, and perennials will keep the soil cool and reduce water lose due to evaporation. Keep mulch three inches from the trunks of trees. An added bonus is mulch will also help to reduce weeds and improve soil quality.
• Revisit the Lawn. It isn’t necessary to eliminate your lawn, but be honest about the amount of lawn you really need. If the only time you are on it is to mow or fertilize, consider a less-thirsty grass or a grass-alternative. A good place to begin is on side yards and park strips, which are usually too narrow to be watered efficiently.
• Water appropriately. It is estimated that the typical household along the Wasatch Front over-waters their landscape by as much as fifty percent. The simplest thing we can do to save water is to water deeply and less frequently. Avoiding over-watering will also reduce the incidence of disease and insects in the lawn and on your other landscape plants.

Other Out of Doors Water Saving Tips

• Use a broom to clean driveways, sidewalks, and patio
• Attach positive pressure nozzles to hoses
• Check evaporative coolers for leaks

Saving Water Indoors

Saving water isn’t just an outdoor activity; there are many ways we can save water indoors, too. You can save water while minimizing bill increases by taking a few simple actions:

• Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth, shaving, or washing your hands
• Fill dishwashers and washing machines, or set water levels to reflect actual loads
• Avoid using in-sink garbage disposals
• Fill a sink or basin with water to wash dishes or produce, instead of allowing the water to run
• Take shorter showers and shallower baths

Every Drop Counts

Last summer, residents of Salt Lake City reduced water use indoors and out for a total reduction of over 15 percent. Working together, we can save water this summer and every summer—even if there isn’t a drought—because every drop of water counts.

For more information on how you can save water, visit our web site at www.slcsaveh2o.com, or contact Stephanie Duer at 801.483.6860 or stephanie.duer@slcgov.com.