No matter your location, water is an issue when it comes to landscaping and lawns. Some areas are getting too much water, many are in drought situations, and very few areas have just the right amount. In Hernando, Pasco, Pinellas, and Citrus counties of Florida, plants are going to need supplemental watering at some time during the year. The irrigation industry has evolved to meet the changing demands to deliver water efficiently in the most economical fashion. The latest trends in the industry are centered around cutting down the amount of water waste.
Drip Irrigation Systems
In a previous article, we discussed how drip systems are beneficial because they allow for fine-tuning of water distribution. Water goes where it is needed, not on the walls, sidewalks, and streets. Plants are healthier because water is delivered slower and with less force near the roots. There is also less water loss to evaporation with a drip irrigation system. Originally best suited for flower beds and trees, new technology is making drip irrigation systems suited for turf as well.
More Efficient Nozzle Technology
Improved nozzle technology directs thicker streams of water at lower trajectories to fight wind drift and improve the amount of water landing where it is intended. Another innovation is to control water pressure at each individual sprinkler head, making them more efficient with less runoff.
Smart Irrigation Systems
Instead of having pre-set, pre-timed watering days, a smart irrigation system analyzes the soil type and absorption rate and irrigates accordingly. Some weather-based controllers gather local weather data and measure the amount of water lost from evaporation, while others measure the moisture level of the soil. By choosing the controller based on what’s best for your geographic location and combining it with irrigation audits to monitor and adjust your system, it’s possible to cut your water waste in half.
Minimizing Maintenance
Especially among younger homeowners, time for the lawn and landscape is at a premium. The trend is toward more native plants that are better-suited naturally to the climate and soil, and xeriscaping. Originally started in the drier western U.S. in the 1980s, the concept has spread to other parts of the country since any landowner anywhere can benefit from the reduced weeds, dense native plantings, less yard maintenance, and reduced need for pesticides and fertilizers it can bring.
Better Customer Education
We are trying to do our part with our website and blog articles to educate our customers and potential customers on the need for more efficient use of water. By pointing out the features and benefits of efficient irrigation and staying up to date with and providing the latest trends, we hope that you will be able to practice good, efficient water management — something that will benefit not only your lawn and landscape, but everyone in our area of Florida.
At Challenger Irrigation, we can repair your existing irrigation system, design one from scratch, or customize an existing installation to make sure your irrigation system performs at its best for each area of your yard or business. We are a full-service irrigation company for residential and commercial properties. Call us today with your irrigation needs!
