Hot summer survival tips for gardens with sprinkler systems

Yes, record hot temperatures are being predicted again for this summer – and if you’re not careful, you could also receive a record high water bill!

A sprinkler system is still the best way to make sure your garden can withstand the heat and still thrive. Compared to watering by hand, it will save water, and money on your water bill! You’ll use just the right amount of water, and you won’t have to worry about under watering or overwatering your plants.

But even with a sprinkler system, it’s not always ‘set and forget’:

You should check your irrigation controller and system on a regular basis and keep an eye out for leaks.
You’ll need to replace worn nozzles and broken seals and remember that your irrigation system is for watering your garden, not the road or the pavement (or your neighbour’s garden!).
In Perth and the Southwest, your garden and lawn only need 10mm of water, twice a week in summer to keep it healthy. This is the level where most of your plant's feeding and drinking roots are found.
Watering more than this doesn’t provide your plants with any additional benefit and overwatering can contribute to leaching vital nutrients from the soil.
You should also make sure you are watering before 9am or after 6pm. Watering in the morning is best as the cooler temperature means less evaporation and allows plants to use water throughout the day when they need it most.