It will keep your yard healthy, save money and protect the environment.
Residents who irrigate their lawns are encouraged to skip a week of watering during the cooler months of December, January and February.
How much is enough?Grass doesn’t need as much water in the cooler months. In fact, 1/2” to 3/4” of water every 10-14 days is enough.
Bugs and diseaseIn Florida, watering every week is sometimes too much. You may be surprised to learn that overwatering your lawn can make it less drought-tolerant and more susceptible to pests and disease.
It’s as easy as off!Turn off your irrigation timer the week you want to skip and turn it on the week you want to water.
Lou Kavouras from the District, Jim Davis from UF and Carol Ann Breyer, one of Florida’s master gardeners, have joined together to form the Florida-Friendly Irrigating Team. The District, UF and Florida’s master gardeners have various missions, but our science, values and education align when it comes to caring for your Florida yard.
During the winter months of December, January and February, your yard only needs about 3/4” of water every 10-14 days. So turn your irrigation timer off when you want to skip a week and turn it on the week you want to water.
Temperatures are cool and plant growth is limited. This is a good time to skip a week of irrigation to train your yard to need less water. Too much water in the winter will encourage pests and make your lawn less able to survive drier conditions.
Learn to recognize the signs when your yard needs water:
65% of District residents said they would support changes in their community's rules and regulations to reduce lawn watering. Find out how you can make your community more Florida-friendly.
