Cut Lawn & Landscape Shrubs Around Sprinkler Heads

Sometimes I get a questions something like, "what is the best way to cut my lawn around the sprinkler heads?" Well, my answer to this question is that you shouldn't have to worry about it if your sprinkler heads are properly installed! The sprinkler heads should be just below grade level so that you can run over them with a lawnmower and not cause any damage to them. But, you don't want the heads too low either because they can get clogged up with dirt or not pop up high enough to get proper water coverage on your grass.

Many people have sprinkler heads on risers or pipe that put the spray above bushes. These type of heads can get cut when trimming your shrubs if you are not careful. It is best to turn on your system and identify where each sprinkler head is located prior to cutting your bushes. Use a small mark-out flag, a stick, or anything that will bring your attention to where the heads are located so that you do not cut them.

I actually don't like sprinkler heads on risers because I think they look ugly. Some people may argue that you must have them in certain cases, but I disagree. It is true that it may be the most convenient way to get water coverage over a bush and on to the entire bed or lawn area, but proper watering can be accomplished another way.

If you have separate zones for your lawn and shrub/flower beds then you do not have to water above the bushes. Remember that you don't really need to water the tops of the bushes, it is the root system that needs the water. You can use typical 4" pop-up sprays and let them water the ground underneath the leaves on the plants or bushes. You could also install drip tube for the flower beds. Just make sure that no plants are blocking coverage over your lawn area. This method of watering will be out of sight and not create the eye-sore of big tall, leaning sprinkler heads.

Scott
http://www.autolawnsprinklers.com/

Summer Irrigation System Preparation

It is almost a nice and hot 90 degrees here in North Florida today and while it is not officially summer yet, it sure feels like it. Many of you have already tuned up your irrigation system at the beginning of Spring, but for those of you have not you better hurry because Summer is well on its' way and the relentless heat will not have mercy on your lawn and landscape.

While we do get many rainy months, especially during the summer, it is still crucial to have your lawn sprinkler system up to par to keep your yard in good condition. Even if it rains for a week straight, all it takes is about three days of no rain and hot temperatures for your lawn to dry up and need water again. With the sandy soil conditions making the ground very permeable, watering needs to be done frequently. A good rule of thumb is to water about once every three days, depending on weather conditions.

Areas which have more of a clay based soil can go longer in between watering because the soil holds the moisture in longer, but regular watering is still required to maintain a lush, green lawn and landscape. Typically lawns require more water than many shrubs and plants, but this all depends on several factors such as what type of grass and what kind of plants/shrubs you have in your yard.

Before it is too late and you loose your beautiful landscape to harsh summer weather conditions, you should perform an irrigation systems inspection to identify any current or potential problems with your sprinkler system. Although repairs and modifications can cost some money, it is still usually much cheaper than having to replace or redo your lawn or landscape!

So, if you haven't already done so, make sure to take the time to check out your sprinkler system at your home and/or business. If you don't have the time or the knowledge, call a professional right away. Don't put it off because irrigation contractors are very busy during this time of year and you may have to wait for a few days to get service. I am on my lunch break right now, enjoying the air conditioning for a few minutes, but I'm back to work fixing sprinkler systems as soon as I'm done! Good luck and as always feel free to email me with any questions.

Scott
http://www.autolawnsprinklers.com