By KATHERINE MUNSON
Q: Why should homeowners skip a week of irrigation in the winter?
A: According to research by the University of Florida, grass only needs one-half to three-quarters of an inch of water every 10–14 days in the winter. That means you can skip a week of irrigation in the cooler months. In fact, if your lawn has received any significant rainfall, you can turn off your irrigation system and operate it manually as needed. It’s important to remember that grass is a plant and plant watering needs change throughout the year. Overwatering in the winter not only wastes water but can lead to poor plant health.
Q: How do I know when my lawn needs water?
A: You can determine when your grass needs water when grass blades are folded in half lengthwise on at least one-third of your yard; grass blades appear blue-gray and/or grass blades do not spring back, leaving footprints on the lawn for several minutes after walking on it.
Q: What day and time should I water my lawn in the winter?
A: Check local water restrictions to confirm your home’s watering day(s) and time. It is recommended to water in the early morning or evening hours. Remember that although water restrictions set what day of the week you can water, it does not mean you have to water. Only water on your designated day(s) if you need to. Visit WaterMatters.org/Restrictions or contact your local water utility to learn more about your watering day(s).
Q: Can smart irrigation controllers help with seasonal changes?
A: Yes! Smart irrigation controllers monitor local weather and other site conditions to adjust your irrigation system to apply just the right amount of water at the right time. Consider upgrading to a WaterSense labeled smart controller this winter to make seasonal changes even easier.
Q: How are the current hydrologic conditions?
A: Since Hurricane Milton hit the region, rainfall has been below average. The Climate Prediction Center indicates a chance of below-average rainfall through spring. The region’s water supply storage systems are relatively full due to the summer rainy season. However, these supplies need to last through the dry season, which typically ends in May.
Q: Why is protecting our water resources so important?
A: Water is a limited resource in Florida that we all play a role in protecting, which makes it important to understand your personal impact. The choices you make as a homeowner or community, from the plants in your landscape to how you water your lawn, can make a big difference on your overall water use. The District encourages everyone to do their part in protecting and conserving our shared water resources. To learn more, visit WaterMatters.org/Water101.
As lead conservation education coordinator, Katherine manages the District’s youth education program and assists in water conservation outreach efforts. Katherine holds a bachelor’s degree in environmental studies concentrating in Environmental Education and Communication from Green Mountain College. She also holds a master’s degree
