Summer is one of the most beautiful times of year in our community — gardens are blooming, vegetables are growing, and outdoor spaces become gathering places for family and friends. It’s also the time of year when water use typically increases the most, especially outdoors.
Did you know that July is nationally recognized as Smart Irrigation Month, making the perfect time to take a closer look at how you are water your landscapes and gardens during some of the hottest parts of the year.
The good news is that a healthy, vibrant garden does not have to mean high water use. With a few smart practices, you can create a beautiful landscape that thrives while using water efficiently. Here are some simple tips to help your garden stay healthy all summer long while protecting our precious water resources.
Water Early — and Only When Needed
The best time to water is early in the morning, ideally before 10 a.m. Cooler temperatures and calmer winds help reduce evaporation, allowing more water to reach plant roots where it’s needed most.
Avoid watering during the heat of the day when much of the water can evaporate before plants absorb it. Evening watering can also work, but leaving plants wet overnight may increase the chance of mildew or plant disease.
A good rule of thumb is to water deeply but less frequently. Deep watering encourages stronger root systems and healthier plants that can better tolerate warm weather.
Smart Irrigation Starts with Smart Maintenance
Smart Irrigation Month is also a reminder to check your irrigation system regularly. Small irrigation leaks can waste a surprising amount of water over time. Summer is a great opportunity to inspect your sprinkler system and make sure it’s operating efficiently.
Take a few minutes to inspect your system for:
- Broken sprinkler heads
- Overspray onto sidewalks or driveways
- Dripping valves
- Uneven watering
- Clogged drip emitters
Simple adjustments can improve efficiency and help ensure water is going exactly where it’s ne
Upgrade to Drip Irrigation
Drip irrigation is one of the most efficient ways to water plants because it delivers water slowly and directly to the soil near plant roots. Compared to traditional sprinklers, drip systems can reduce water waste caused by runoff and evaporation.
Drip irrigation works especially well for:
- Flower beds
- Vegetable gardens
- Shrubs
- Trees
- Container gardens
Use Smart Irrigation Technology
Today’s irrigation technology can make watering easier and more efficient than ever. Weather-based irrigation controllers and smart timers automatically adjust watering schedules based on local weather conditions, temperatures, and seasonal changes. Check out the District’s website (soquelcreekwater.org/rebates) for rebates.
These tools help prevent overwatering and can significantly reduce unnecessary water use during the summer months.
Add Mulch to Protect Moisture
Mulch is one of the easiest and most effective ways to conserve water in your garden. A layer of mulch helps:
- Retain soil moisture
- Reduce evaporation
- Keep roots cooler
- Suppress weeds
- Improve soil health
Organic mulches such as bark, wood chips, compost, or straw work especially well during hot summer months. Even a few inches can make a big difference.
Choose Climate-Appropriate Plants
Plants adapted to California’s climate often require far less water once established. Native and drought-tolerant plants can provide beautiful color and texture while supporting pollinators and local ecosystems.
Many low-water plants thrive in sunny summer conditions and can reduce long-term maintenance needs as well.
Don’t Overwater Your Lawn
If you have a lawn, it may need less water than you think. Signs of overwatering can include runoff, soggy soil, fungus, or constantly green growth that requires frequent mowing.
A simple way to check if your lawn needs water is the “footprint test.” If grass springs back after you walk on it, it likely has enough moisture. If footprints remain visible, it may be time to water.
Check out the District’s website (soquelcreekwater.org/rebates) for our rebate on replacing your lawn with low-water use plants.
Don’t Forget the Soil
Healthy soil acts like a sponge, helping landscapes retain moisture longer. Adding compost to garden beds can improve soil structure and increase water retention naturally.
The healthier your soil, the less water your plants may need over time.
Every Drop Matters
Our community continues to lead the way in water efficiency, using some of the lowest amounts of water per person in the state. These efforts help protect our groundwater basin and strengthen our region’s long-term water reliability.
By making small changes in our landscapes and gardening habits, we can all help preserve water while still enjoying beautiful outdoor spaces throughout the summer season.
A water-wise garden isn’t about using less beauty — it’s about using water wisely.