We landscape our homes and expect he plants to grow and thrive. However, the amount of water being applied to home landscapes may be harmful to our new plants, increasing the potential for mold which damages walls, stucco surfaces as well as streets. Not to mention excessive water bills. Save money, protect your property and improve the health of the landscape by taking time to evaluate your landscape watering.

• Check the irrigation controller for water times. In spring months, turf needs only 2 or 3 days, 3 minutes on 3 cycles (to move water deeper into the soil). Trees, shrubs and groundcovers need water only 1 or 2 days per week, right now. (Check the newsletter in the Irvine Ranch Water district monthly water bill. They provide generic watering guidelines for home landscapes each month.)

• New landscapes get watered frequently, but irrigation times do not get reduced as plants are established. If your landscape has been in-the-ground for 1 month, it's time to turn the water down.

• How much water depends on:

1. Types of plants. Turf generally takes twice the amount of water than do trees and shrubs. 
2. Plant location. Plants in the shade need even less water. Check the soil for moisture before watering.
3. Weather. A cool spring means even less need for water. Turn off irrigation controllers during periods of rain.

Use a soil probe or check the soil moisture before watering. Look for moss on soil, walls and sidewalks. Look for water runoff on sidewalks, mushy soil or mud. All are signs of over-watering that will stress plants and potentially cause other structural damages.

Check your landscape water now and make adjustments that save you money!

If you would like to set up a meeting, please e-mail Cathy Acquazzino of Progressive Community Management at (949)582-7770 and cathy@progressivecm.com or her assistant, Laurie Clark, lauriec@progressivecm.com

Thank you!