Adjust Your Outdoor Watering Schedule for Arizona Summers
Living in Arizona means dealing with intense summer heat, which can impact your outdoor watering routine. Here are some tips to help you adjust your watering schedule:
As we move beyond the peak summer temperatures, City of Chandler Urban Forester Ryan McCartney and Water Conservation Program Manager Tiffany Yand offer advice on how to water your plants and trees effectively during this time of year.
McCartney emphasizes the importance of observing your plants and trees for signs of stress. If you notice them struggling, it’s a sign that they may need more water. Yand recommends watering your grass no more than twice a week in the summer, while low-water plants like trees and shrubs should be watered weekly. Thirstier trees, such as citrus and non-native species, may require watering every seven to 14 days.
When it comes to outdoor watering, consider the following recommendations:
- Ensure shrubs are watered at least two feet deep.
- Established trees should receive water to a depth of three feet.
- Grass should be watered to a depth of six to 10 inches.
McCartney advises targeting the canopy or dripline of trees when watering to maximize effectiveness. It’s advisable to adjust your outdoor watering schedule at least four times a year to meet seasonal needs. Using woody mulch around the base of trees can help conserve water by preventing evaporation, and smart irrigation systems offer convenient control over watering frequencies.
As temperatures cool down in the fall, experts recommend revisiting your watering schedule. The City of Chandler also provides water conservation rebates and incentive programs, which you can learn more about on their website.
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