Preparing Your Irrigation System for a Successful Spring and Summer

As the warmer months approach, getting your irrigation system ready is essential to maintain a healthy lawn and vibrant landscaping. A well-prepared irrigation system saves water, prevents costly repairs, and supports your lawn care routine through the dry seasons. This guide walks you through the steps to prepare your irrigation system for spring and summer, ensuring your outdoor spaces thrive.

Inspect Your Irrigation System Thoroughly

Start by checking every part of your irrigation system. Winter can cause damage to pipes, sprinkler heads, and valves, so a detailed inspection helps catch issues early.

• Look for leaks or broken pipes: Walk around your yard and check for soggy spots or pooling water.

• Examine sprinkler heads: Make sure they are not clogged, cracked, or misaligned. Replace any damaged heads.

• Check valves and timers: Test each valve to ensure it opens and closes properly. Verify that your timer settings match your lawn’s watering needs.

• Inspect backflow preventer: This device protects your water supply from contamination. Ensure it is functioning and not leaking.

  
  

Fixing small problems now prevents bigger issues during the busy watering season.

Clean and Adjust Sprinkler Heads

Sprinkler heads often get clogged with dirt, grass, or debris during winter. Cleaning them improves water distribution and efficiency.

• Remove the heads and soak them in a vinegar solution to dissolve mineral buildup.

• Use a soft brush or toothpick to clear any remaining debris.

• Adjust the spray pattern and radius to avoid watering sidewalks, driveways, or streets.

• Make sure the spray covers all parts of your lawn and landscaping evenly.

  
  

Properly adjusted sprinklers reduce water waste and promote healthy growth.

Test and Program Your Irrigation Controller

Your irrigation controller is the system’s brain. Setting it correctly ensures your lawn and landscaping get the right amount of water.

• Update the schedule: Set watering times based on local climate, soil type, and plant needs. Early morning watering reduces evaporation.

• Adjust for seasonal changes: Increase watering frequency as temperatures rise but avoid overwatering.

• Check for power issues: Replace batteries if your controller has a backup battery.

• Consider smart controllers: These devices adjust watering based on weather data, saving water and improving lawn care.

  
  

Programming your controller thoughtfully helps maintain a green lawn without wasting resources.

Perform a System Run Test

After repairs and adjustments, run a full system test to check performance.

• Turn on each zone individually and observe the spray pattern.

• Look for uneven coverage, dry spots, or overspray.

• Listen for unusual noises that might indicate leaks or broken parts.

• Time each zone to ensure it runs for the programmed duration.

  
  

This test confirms your irrigation system is ready to support your landscaping through spring and summer.

Maintain Your Lawn and Landscaping Alongside Irrigation

Irrigation is just one part of lawn care. Combining it with proper landscaping practices maximizes your outdoor space’s health.

• Aerate your lawn: This improves water absorption and root growth.

• Apply mulch around plants: Mulch retains moisture and reduces weed growth.

• Prune shrubs and trees: Healthy plants use water more efficiently.

• Use drought-resistant plants: These require less water and reduce irrigation needs.

  
  

Integrating these steps with your irrigation system preparation creates a sustainable and attractive yard.

Monitor Water Usage and Adjust as Needed

Once your system is running, keep an eye on water use and lawn condition.

• Check your water bill for unexpected increases.

• Watch for signs of overwatering like yellowing grass or fungal growth.

• Adjust watering schedules during rainy periods or heatwaves.

• Regularly inspect sprinkler heads and valves throughout the season.

  
  

Active monitoring helps you save water and maintain a healthy lawn and landscaping.

Winter is also a great time to get on our early-bird schedule for the coming season.

Need help keeping your property clean, healthy, and beautiful all year? Contact Lawn Harmony Landscaping today:

• 📞 Phone: 614-425-9789

• 📧 Email: Lawnharmonyohio@gmail.com

• 🌐 Website: www.LawnHarmonyLLC.com

• 👍 Facebook: facebook.com/LawnHarmonyLLC

We proudly serve Franklin, Pickaway, Fairfield, and Ross Counties in Central Ohio.