| Sprinkler Calibration |
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Irrigation problems are the number one reason for turf and ornamental damage. Pests will do more damage to a weak area and will sometimes seek out an area with too much or too little water. Weeds will grow in under these same conditions and the St. Augustine grasses will die out. Proper water quantity is crucial! Calibrating the sprinkler system to get the proper amounts of water is the first step. “Checking the system for proper operation is next. Cleaning sprinkler heads and replacing any broken heads is essential. To calibrate the sprinkler system, place empty containers (tuna cans, cat food cans, pie tins, rain gages are the best) around the lawn, especially in the suspect areas. Run the sprinkler system as it normally would, then measure the amount of water in each container. There should be ¾ to one inch of water in cooler weather, once a week and one inch to 1 ½ inches in warmer weather, twice a week. In periods of hot weather, three inches of water a week is necessary. This would be 3 one inch waterings per week. This will give the lawn and shrubs a good soak. If there is less or more water in the container, a duration time adjustment is needed. Troubled areas may need some sprinkler repair, or a sprinkler clock time adjustment. The best time to water is between 2 a.m. and 6 a.m., prior to sunrise. Shaded areas do not get the same sunlight and require less water. Thinning out the trees that cause shade will allow more sunlight to get thru. Remember!!! Lawn and ornamentals are at their best with proper amounts of sunlight, water and fertilizer. |