Turn the zone on manually and wait until you see water coming from the bottom of the container. For larger trees and shrubs a longer run time would most likely be required.ĭrip zones for container or window boxes require a much shorter run time. If your system uses in-line emitter tubing for shrub bed irrigation a good starting point is a 1 hour run time, once a week. These areas do not drain as well as open exposures. As a rule, shrub zones should run only once or twice a week, especially shrub zones located near foundations or barriers. Fixed spray heads (2′-15′ radius): 15-20 minutesĬonsult your landscaper or nursery before setting your run times.Rotary – multi stream nozzle (13’-30′ radius): 45-60 minutes.Rotary sprinkler single spray (20′-45′ radius): 45-60 minutes.The following are suggested run times for turf zones based on 3 start times a week to apply approximately 1 inch of water This allows time for the water to percolate into the soil. Helpful Hint A beneficial practice to eliminate run-off or pooling during a watering cycle is to split the watering time in half and create a second start time right after the first cycle is complete. Under extremely hot and dry conditions increased frequency of watering may be required. Therefore, a watering frequency of 2 to 3 times a week should be sufficient. Louis area does not allow extended run times without runoff or puddling, which wastes water and can damage your turf. However, the high clay content of soil in the St. It is generally agreed that your lawn and landscape benefit from deep watering with time in-between to allow the soil to dry sufficiently. Studies show that the optimum time to run your system is between 2:00 and 10:00am. When establishing a start time for the watering schedule, consider factors such as water pressure, wind, evaporation, and foot traffic. A watering schedule has to be “fine tuned” through the owner’s observation of the different areas of his lawn and shrubs. In many cases, zones will be a combination of these factors. Is the area in close proximity to the residence or foundation?.Is the area subject to windy conditions?.Is the area flat, sloped or a combination of both?.Is the area subject to intense sun, shade or a combination of both?.Factors to consider when formulating a watering schedule for your lawn and shrubs.