Water requirements of landscape plants change throughout the year. Daylength, temperature, relative humidity, and wind speed all affect the loss of water from soil and plants. In the absence of rain, these losses must be replenished by irrigating.
Yearly drip system maintenance is especially important to make sure plants are receiving the water they require and that none is being wasted. Check the system early in spring before it is turned on for spring-summer irrigation. This would include opening the end caps and flushing the system.
Sonoma County Master Gardeners are here to help! Garden Sense is a free program for Sonoma County residents who want to learn how to create a beautiful and sustainable garden that conserves water. We make home visits and provide information on low-water-use plant selection and irrigation.
Butte County Master Gardeners share research based knowledge and information on home horticulture, pest management, and sustainable landscape practices through workshops, presentations, and programs.
How to manage your drip irrigation system Irrigation control systems are used to ensure a desired level of moisture is maintained for the plants with or without the presence of a human operator. Beyond the basic components of a drip system, there are ways to manage the system as a whole.
Acetic acid, also known as vinegar, is used in products for weed control. Many people choose it because it is natural. However, acetic acid can damage skin and eyes, especially at concentrations commonly found in weed killers.
Nutsedges are aggressive and persistent weeds that commonly infest lawns, vegetable and flower gardens, and landscapes. These perennial sedges are a problem in lawns because they grow faster than turfgrasses and result in non-uniform turf.