Time to turn down the sprinklers - Water reduction urged in fall landscape maintenence

The days are getting shorter and the weather cooler. In autumn, lawns and gardens throughout the San Diego region need less water.

San Diegans set their clocks back last Sunday and now the San Diego County Water Authority recommend water users also “fall back” on landscape watering times by adjusting residential and commercial irrigation systems to reduce watering times and days.

By watering in the evening or early morning, between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m., when there is less wind and evaporation, homeowners can save water and reduce water bills. The Landscape Calculator at http://apps.sandiego.gov/landcalc/ will assist homeowners in determining watering requirements for their landscape.

Water users should also replace the batteries in irrigation controllers at this time.

For tips on water conservation and the 20-Gallon Challenge, visit http://www.20gallonchallenge.com or contact a local water agency.