Tips for Keeping Your Lawn Healthy During Water Restrictions and Hot Weather in Denver

If you live in the Denver Metro or Front Range of Colorado, it’s been an interesting year. First there was excessive moisture and storms that created a lot of damage in certain areas. Then the heat settled in. The hotter months come with water restrictions. They might differ, depending on which municipality that you live in. At Ironwood Earthcare, we understand your frustration and can assist with some tips that can help you.

There are differences between maintaining a lawn and a garden. A garden or potted plants can be incorporated into a drip system, where you don’t realistically have that option with a lawn, with the exception of smaller areas. Since most people find a way to always water their plants, whether flowers or vegetables, regardless of water restrictions, we will focus on lawn care.

Tips to Assist You During High Heat and Water Restrictions:

• Check local guidelines: Stay informed about any specific water restrictions or guidelines imposed by your local authorities. They may provide instructions on when and how you can water your lawn.

• Water during permitted times: If there are designated times for watering, make sure to adhere to those schedules. Typically, early morning or late evening hours are recommended as evaporation rates are lower during these times. Watering times between 9:30 p.m. and 2:30 a.m. are suggested, if at all possible.

• Water deeply and infrequently: Instead of frequent light watering, focus on watering deeply but less often. This promotes deep root growth and helps your lawn withstand heat stress. Aim for around 1 inch of water per week, including rainfall. Be sure to check out what is allowed in the municipality you reside in to make sure you are following the rules. For example – here are the watering schedule for Aurora and also the one for Parker.

• Use smart irrigation techniques: Consider investing in a programmable sprinkler system or smart irrigation controller. These devices can adjust watering schedules based on weather conditions, soil moisture levels, and local restrictions, optimizing water usage.

• Use drought-tolerant grass and plants: Consider replacing or supplementing your lawn with drought-resistant grass species or native plants that require less water. They are better adapted to dry conditions and can reduce your water consumption.

• Mulch your lawn: Applying a layer of mulch around plants and over bare soil areas helps retain moisture, suppress weed growth, and reduce evaporation. Use organic materials like wood chips or straw as mulch.

• Inspect for leaks and inefficiencies: Regularly inspect your irrigation system for leaks, clogs, or broken sprinkler heads. Fix any issues promptly to avoid water waste.

• Consider hand watering or drip irrigation: In some cases, you may be allowed to hand water specific areas or use drip irrigation systems for targeted watering. These methods can be more efficient than sprinklers.

• Prioritize essential areas: During restrictions, prioritize watering essential areas like high-traffic zones, young plants, or delicate landscape features. Reduce or skip watering less critical areas.

• Monitor lawn health: Keep an eye on your lawn’s health and adjust your watering as needed. Signs of overwatering include yellowing, wilting, or fungal growth, while underwatered grass may turn brown and become less resilient.

• Remember, following local regulations and being mindful of water conservation practices not only helps during periods of heat and water restrictions but also contributes to long-term environmental sustainability.

If you have questions or concerns regarding keeping your yard adequately watered and healthy, please don’t hesitate to call our team at Ironwood Earthcare. Derek Stroden, the operations manager of our company, has over 20 years’ experience and is a certified arborist and leads a professional and efficient team.

If you need professional tree services and live in the Denver Metro or Front Range area of Colorado, fill out our contact form, or call us at: 303-366-3020 for an estimate.