TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WCTV) – A water shortage warning has been issued for the entire Big Bend of Florida, and officials are encouraging everyone to conserve water when irrigating their yards.
Cutting back on watering your lawn can be easier said than done, but Fielder Tree Service in Leon County offered some tips.
Arborist Michael Cross with Fielder Tree Service said to only run sprinklers early or late, not when the sun is highest in the sky.
Also, don’t let the water overspray hard surfaces like sidewalks or pool decks. Laying mulch can help with that, Cross said.
Cross also said it’s important know how much water your sprinklers are putting out.
“An average lawn needs about a half an inch to three-quarters of an inch of rain per session,” Cross said. “And what I find interesting is that most people don’t really know the volume of water they’re putting out. They focus more on the time.”
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Cross suggested setting up a rain gauge and moving it around your yard, which could help you cut back or rethink how you’re using your sprinklers.
Another tip, Cross said, is cutting your grass longer. The taller blades help with shade and lock in moisture.
You can also consider which parts of your property could go without as much water.
“So, if you have a section over here that’s maybe a natural buffer zone, let that go a little bit. Let nature run its course, but if you’ve got valuable, high-value plants or maybe some section of the yard that’s sentimental, put more time and water into that area,” Cross said.
Cross said thinking about ways to conserve now, while the warnings are voluntary, will put you ahead of the game if we see mandatory restrictions in the future.
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