Summer watering can cause most water bills to jump! In fact, about 32% of your total yearly water bill goes to watering during the summer months.A large part of this may simply be the result of overwatering – something that can be controlled.With a few tips, anyone can be on the way to watering wisely.

Outdoor Conservation Tips

Here are 10 things you can do to save water outside this summer:

• Water your lawn only when it needs it.A good way to see if your lawn needs water is to step on the grass.If it springs back up when you move, it doesn’t need water.If it stays flat, fetch the sprinkler.
  
  
• Deep soak your lawn.When you do water, do it long enough for the moisture to soak down to the roots where it will do the most good.A light sprinkling can evaporate quickly and tend to encourage shallow root systems.
  
  
• Water during the cool part of the day to avoid evaporation.Early morning is generally better than dusk since it helps prevent growth of fungus.
  
  
• Don’t water the pavement.Position your sprinkler so water lands on the lawn or garden, not on paved areas.Also avoid watering on windy days.
  
  
• Plant drought-resistant trees and plants.Many beautiful trees and plants thrive with far less watering than other plants.
  
  
• Put a layer of mulch around trees and plants.Mulch will slow evaporation or moisture and discourage weed growth, too.
  
  
• Use a broom, not a hose, to clean driveways and sidewalks.
  
  
• Don’t run the hose while washing your car.Clean the car with a bucket of soapy water.Use the hose just to rinse it off.
  
  
• Use a commercial car wash that recycles water.
  
  
• Set mower blades one notch higher since longer grass means less evaporation