With warmer weather on its way, sprinklers will be turned back on.  Below are some reminders and tips to help you water your lawn most effectively.

1. Early morning hours is the best time to water your lawn, between 4 a.m. and 8 a.m.  The air is cooler and water won’t evaporate as fast as it does in afternoon.  Watering in the evening and night can cause water to cling to the grass blades which creates the potential for lawn diseases and fungus to grow.

2. For those who do not have automatic sprinklers, the best alternative is using a pulsating, revolving sprinkler.  This type of sprinkler shoots out horizontally at a higher velocity and not as vulnerable to wind.  However, for new grass (seed) an oscillating sprinkler is most effective.  An oscillating sprinkler is softer when it lands and isn’t so strong that it will push the grass seed.

3. Water a maximum of twice per week.  Too much watering can cause fungus to grow as well as a shallow root system.  Fewer waterings allow roots to grow deeper.

4. If your sprinklers are not on an automatic timer, be sure to use a timer when watering to remind yourself to turn off the sprinklers.  Invest in a timer or use the timer on your cell phone.

Brought to you by the City of Turlock Municipal Services Department .

Water Conservation Tip

Summer Watering Schedule now in effect: Two day per week watering schedule started March 1 and will run through Oct. 31. Odd-numbered residences can water on Wednesdays and Sundays. Even-numbered residences can water on Tuesdays and Saturdays. No watering is allowed between the hours of 9 a.m. and 7 p.m.