1. Determine the output of your sprinklers.

Set six or more straight-sided cans of the same type (tuna or catfood work well) on your lawn between sprinkler heads. Run the sprinklers for 20 minutes and measure the water in each can with a ruler. Water pressure varies depending on time of day. It is best to conduct the can test at the same time you plan to irrigate. (Don't try this during High Desert windy periods: results may be skewed.) Determine the average amount of water in each can. MULTIPLY BY 3 TO DETERMINE SPRINKLER OUTPUT PER HOUR.

2. Determine how long to irrigate each week.

The following table tells you the total number of minutes to water your lawn each week. Find your sprinkler output and turfgrass type (warm or cool season) to determine how long to irrigate.

Minutes to Irrigate Each Week

If run-off or brown spots occur with weekly applications, you can divide the weekly total by 2, 3, or 4, to irrigate two, three, or four times weekly.

Table of Contents

Home
Introduction
Know your Local Ordinance
Desert Climate
Analyze Your Site
Landscaping a New Home
Soil Amendments
Planting Your Landscape
Make Your Own Compost
Designing and Installing
       your Irrigation System
Relandscaping for the
       High Desert
3 Year Guide for
       Relandscaping
Maintaining an Established        Landscape
Maintaining Your Irrigation        System
Water Budget Method of         Irrigating Trees and
        Shrubs
High Desert Lawn
        Watering Guide
Do You Have a Fire Hazard?
Erosion Control
The High Desert Seasons
Turf Grasses for the
        High Desert
Plant Lists
     Shrubs
     Vines
     Groundcover
     Plants for Color
     Trees

Acknowledgments