How Much Water is Used for Lawn Irrigation?
Just across the border, our neighbors use nearly 9 billion gallons of water every day to water their lawns and landscape. Canada is only a water hose behind in our water practices, meaning that we can expect to be using a similar volume of water for our lawn irrigation needs.
One of the most common mistakes people make when caring for their lawn is watering it for too long and too often
How Much Water is Wasted on Lawns?
Water is most commonly wasted by people using manual watering methods that aren’t measured or controlled. However, you could also be wasting water if you are watering at the wrong time of day, aren’t properly maintaining your sprinkler system, or don’t have a water sensor that accounts for rainfall in its watering schedule.
How Long Can Grass Go Without Water?
When it comes to droughts or water rationing, the same question reappears, “how much water does a lawn require to survive?” Depending on your type of grass and other conditions, your lawn could last up to four weeks without water. Anything beyond that timeframe could result in permanent damage. Any early sign that your grass has become dehydrated is whether or not it springs back after walking on it. Thirsty lawns will have imprints from your feet, whereas healthy blades of grass will quickly bounce back. You can also dig 6 to 12 inches below your lawn’s surface to determine whether the soil is moist or dry and crumbling.
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Does the Quality of Irrigation Water Matter?
Water, a seemingly-simple liquid, is actually a lot more complicated than you might think (especially when it comes to lawns). The quality of the water you use to soak your grass could play a role in growth, resiliency, damage, and more. Some of the most common water quality problems people find when watering their lawns with alternative water sources are high salinity, reduced water infiltration rate, and high concentration of specific ion toxicities. Still, with roughly 70 percent of the world’s freshwater is being used only for irrigation purposes, finding quality water alternatives continues to be a growing priority in the irrigation industry.
Using an Intelligent Irrigation System Saves Water (and Costs!)
At GTA Irrigation & Lighting, our pro irrigation services and intelligent irrigation systems can help you design, install, and maintain an efficient, eco-friendly irrigation system for your lawn and garden. Together, we’ll protect precious water resources while also growing beautiful, resilient lawns.
Mike Moran
Hello! I'm one of the co-owner's of GTA Irrigation & Lighting. I write about topics that will help you get the most of of your outdoor living spaces. You can get all of my new articles sent direct to your inbox, just subscribe below.