When Can We Water?

Due to the significant rainfall in the early weeks of September, Raleigh water customers may water their lawn and plants THREE days a week. Under the new rules residents with odd numbered addresses may water lawns on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. Those with even numbered addresses may water on Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. Sprinkler systems may operate between midnight and 10 a.m. Sprinklers attached to garden hoses are allowed between 6 a.m. and 10 a.m. and between 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. Watering with a hand-held hose is not restricted. Although we have more access to water, it does not mean we should not do our best to conserve it.

Here are several tools available to help you do this:

Timers: These are a must have. They allow you to water whenever you need to, even if you are not at home. Just set the timer to water when and how long you need it. The timer will turn on and off automatically. This will allow you to take that well deserved vacation without stressing about your plants.

Drip Irrigation: This is the most efficient way to water your plantings. Water is applied directly to the base of the plants and drips into the soil. This eliminates runoff and delivers 100% of the water to the plant roots.

Soaker Hoses: Weave them around your plants and water weeps out the entire length of the hose. These are easy to install and are an excellent choice for plants that are close together.

Sprinklers: These are not the most efficient way to water, but are getting better. You can now choose from a ton of different styles that water in different shapes. You can also control the distance and width of the sprinkling path with some models.

Some other things to consider when looking for watering accessories:

Quick-connects: These allow for easy connecting and disconnecting of your watering tools.

Rain sensors: Hook these up to your water timer so your sprinkler does not run when it has recently rained.

Plant Nannies: Connect a drink bottle filled with water to these for extended watering of containers.

With the right combination of these water accessories and a little help from Mother Nature, protecting your green leaved investment should be no problem. For more information on the current water restrictions, visit http://www.raleighnc.gov