We are entering the warmest and driest part of the year. I have had many residents ask me about watering so I'm offering 10 important water tips:

1. Water needs depend on the plant and where it is located. Moisture-loving plants require more frequent watering than pants adapted to dry conditions.

2. Plants as a whole, need one inch of water every 7-10 days to stay healthy. 

3. When it hasn't rained sufficiently, a deep soaking every week will provide your plants with adequate moisture. 

4. Don't water in the heat of the day.

5. The best times to water are between 4 a.m. and 10 a.m. 

6. Turn off the irrigation system when it rains. You can install an inexpensive rain sensor shut-off switch.

7. Mulch well using pine straw or pine mulch.

8. Two to four inches of mulch will be adequate.

9. Know your soil. Plants growing in clay soil need to be watered less often than plants growing in sandy soil because sandy soils drain more quickly.

10. Try using rain barrels. You can connect them to your downspouts, which will give you about 50 gallons of free rainwater after every good rain.

In conclusion, when using your irrigation system, it is best to operate it manually. This will save you money.