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entire lawn is receiving equal amounts of water Place tuna cans in different spots throughout the yard, turn on the system and calculate how long it takes to disperse three quarters an inch of water and set sprinklers to provide that amount.
3. Use less water
Water infrequently to help develop a healthy, drought-tolerant lawn. Give your lawn three quarters an inch of water about once a week, or even less during the rainy season. Be aware of local watering restrictions during droughts. Turn on the watering system only when the grass begins to show signs of wilt. Over-watering can weaken roots and result in pest outbreaks.
4. Grow a naturally green lawn
Avoid chemical fertilizers, which require irrigation and pollute our waterways. Instead, use grass clippings or natural compost to provide fertilization. Eliminate pesticides, which stress your lawn and pose a danger to your family and pets. Let weeds be a part of your lawn: studies show that a lawn can contain up to 15 percent weed species before it becomes noticeable. For serious pest problems, contact a maintenance company that practices Integrated Pest Management.
5. Mow less frequently
According to the EPA, mowing your lawn for one hour produces as much pollution as driving a car for 350 miles. Save time by mowing less frequently. Wait until grass reaches five inches in length before cutting it. Less frequent mowing will help reduce pest problems. Never cut more than 1/3 of the blade at once. After mowing, leave grass clippings and leaves on the lawn as fertilizer.
6. Plant a native grass species
Choose a native (if possible) pest-resistant species suited to your geographic region. Bahia grass the best species for Sarasota County lawns. Groundcover plants are another alternative—these low-growing species will cover an open space with green foliage, but don’t require mowing or watering. Mimosa is a great groundcover to replace your lawn; plant cuttings during the summer months, and in a few years your yard will be covered with attractive pink flowers, instead of brown grass!
Sarasota County Cooperative Extension – Horticulture: Groundcovers
7. Convert your lawn to a native yard
Lush green lawns are not part of the natural Florida landscape, which is why they require so much care. By reducing your lawn, you can save time and money and minimize pollution. First, expand the planting beds in your yard and create new ones around trees and shrubs. Add native grasses, groundcovers and drought-tolerant plants. Use natural mulch to create pathways. Soon, you will have a diverse, low-maintenance yard.
See ECO-Tips: Environmental Landscaping
8. Lawn-Free Living
Say good-bye to your difficult lawn and hello to a simple, sustainable lifestyle. Kill turf grass by covering it with old carpet and wood chip mulch for 4-8 weeks. This works best in the hottest months of summer or the driest months of winter. To maintain open space, consider installing a stone patio or wooden deck space. Each step towards lawn-free living helps conserve water, reduce pollution and preserve our local ecosystems.
For more information, see ECO-Tips:
Environmental Landscaping
Natural Pest Control
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