As we emerge from the Winter season we are all ready to burst into Spring and begin enjoying some warmer conditions. The winter rain has encouraged the plants in the garden to grow and lawn to become greener but as we head towards Summer we can expect rainfall decrease. To make sure your gardens are thriving before we hit the peak of summer, there is lots you can do to assist them along the way.
Is your reticulation system ready for action? With the winter sprinkler ban behind us we can now consider switching the reticulation back on after its long hibernation. But is it still working and is the performance at its full potential?
There are many common issues that you may experience when attempting to switch on reticulation systems. These include:
- Leaks
- Broken or clogged sprinkler heads
- Faulty reticulation controllers
- Low water pressure
- Zones not working
It’s not always easy to find the source of the problem so we recommend –
- Switch on your reticulation system and carry out a test cycle
- Visually check all sprinkler heads are working through the test cycle
- Check timer on controller is working and program system to operate for your nominated watering days.
Don’t know your watering days in Perth? You can find them at watercorporation.com.au but;
- Sprinklers can only be used between 6pm and 9am on your watering days
- Remember to only water once on your watering days
- Watering in the morning is best – water soaks into the roots and is available throughout the day
- Remember to switch off your sprinklers when rain is forecast
- Also remember that you are allowed to water on additional days to the above, but only by hand/hose. In the peak of the Summer, on those long hot weeks, this can be needed to keep gardens alive.
Spring is also the perfect time to mulch and fertilise your gardens. Mulching is one of the most beneficial things a home owner can do for the health of their garden. Mulched gardens are healthier, have fewer weeds, and are more drought-resistant than unmulched gardens. It will allow you to spend less time watering, weeding, and fighting pest problems.
Written by Annalisa Fonseca, Business Development Manager – Radi Estates.