What great weather we've had the past 2 weeks. As we move through April, the weather is drying out like it does most years and thus, YES, Irrigation season is closer than you think!
We've seen irrigation seasons begin as early as April 1st and as late as mid-May, with the average starting time right around now. The next month or so will likely be a mix of conditions, but with temperatures warming and precipitation tapering off, irrigation will probably need to start soon. While we may still see more rain, some level of irrigation is likely to be necessary before long.
This highly variable weather during the spring is a real justification for weather based and remote access irrigation controllers. Variable weather and inaccurate forecasts leave manual programmed controllers to be inaccurate and lead to overwatering.
Weather Based And Remote Access Irrigation
Most properties that had not already been upgraded to Weather Based Irrigation were converted to Remote access as a part of our contract renewal. This will be a fantastic new tool to help control repair and maintenance costs going forward allowing us to program and adjust remotely as well as activate sprinklers without having to access the controller.
Benefits of Smart Irrigation Technology
Water Conservation
Weather-based controllers reduce water usage by only irrigating when needed based on actual weather conditions rather than pre-set schedules.
Cost Savings
Remote access reduces service calls and allows immediate adjustments without requiring on-site visits, saving both time and money.
Healthier Landscape
Smart irrigation provides plants with the right amount of water at the right time, promoting deeper root growth and healthier plants.
Typical Irrigation Season Timeline
April
System startup and testing. Occasional irrigation may be needed for newly planted areas.
Controllers programmed with conservative spring settings. Systems checked for winter damage.
Regular irrigation schedules begin. Weather-based controllers adjust to increasing temperatures.
May
Full irrigation season typically begins. Programs adjusted for spring growth needs.
Summer
Peak irrigation season. Maximum water requirements for landscape plants.
Remote monitoring ensures optimal watering during hottest months. Smart controllers adjust for actual ET rates.