Colorado is no stranger to dry conditions, and this year so far has shown that with emphasis. With snowpack levels lower than usual, many water providers have officially instigated Stage 1 water restrictions, affecting properties across the Front Range. Regardless of your property type, water restrictions impose challenges for many landlords and tenants in Colorado. In this article, we’ll focus on what you can do to protect your property during dry conditions while remaining compliant with local water restrictions.
Understanding Local Restrictions:
First things first, you have to know what restrictions you’re operating under. During phase 1 water restrictions, many water providers have set limits on outdoor usage specifically. The specifics vary, but generally, many have limited the number of outdoor watering to two times per week, not watering between 10am-6pm, and not activating sprinklers until May. Some providers have implemented specific watering schedules, so make sure to check with your local water provider for more details. Keep in mind that some providers are issuing fines for failing to adhere to their restrictions. Stay informed and stick to the limitations in place.
So then how do you keep your landscaping maintained?
One of the biggest questions that follows then is how do you keep your lawn maintained during these dry conditions and water restrictions? The unfortunate reality is that many lawns are going to suffer during these limitations and seasonal challenges. It’s important to follow the outlined restrictions, but there are ways to help give your landscaping a fighting chance. It all boils down to drought-proofing your home. Let’s go over a few smart tips you can easily implement during the summer season:
1) Prioritize High-Value Plants.
While lawns may go semi-dormant and turn a golden hue, you can still keep your trees and perennials thriving. Most local water restrictions include a “hand-watering loophole.” Using a hose with a shut-off nozzle to target specific shrubs or trees is usually permitted at any time. This is the most effective way to practice landscaping preservation without overusing resources.
2) Improve Your Soil
Utilizing mulch and composting can help your soil retain moisture and help plants survive. Using organic mulches, like wood chips, bark, pine needles, lawn clippings, etc. in can help improve soil quality and maintain a level of curb appeal. These act as an insulator and help prevent soil from baking under the hot sun, while reducing the need for frequent watering. A thick layer of mulch also helps suppress thirsty weeds that compete with your flowers and shrubs for limited nutrients and moisture. Rock, cobblestone, and other mineral types in small areas can also help, but retain absorb and radiate heat, so they’re not recommended in large areas. Adding compost, like peat moss or aged manure, can also help hold more water.
3) Choose Native Plants
Many lawns are actually seeded with non-native grasses, like Kentucky bluegrass, which requires a lot of water. Choosing native plants that actually thrive in Colorado conditions can improve water conservation while maintaining a natural balance. Consider buffalo grass or other native options. Just take it slow rather than make a drastic change, as revamping your entire lawn at once with native plants still requires some level of watering maintenance to get it going. Consider reducing the size of your lawn first as your initial step, then consider planting in the fall when things cool down.
4) Focus Your Irrigation Efforts
A misplaced sprinkler or leaking lines can ruin your water conservation efforts. Make sure sprinklers focus on watering plants instead of concrete walkways and driveways by adjusting sprinkler heads. Not to mention the potential for high utility bills and possible property damage. Performing a monthly “wet test” (turning the system on briefly to check for geysers or clogged nozzles) is a vital part of rental property maintenance. This helps you confirm where water is landing and if a leak might be present. If a leak is found, get it repaired ASAP to maintain your system and save water.
Make sure to review your watering schedule while checking for leaks and positioning, too. This can help you ensure your sprinkler timers are set in the event there are specific days or times that you can or can’t water on.
5) Adjust Mowing Habits.
One of the simplest ways to save water is to let the grass grow a little longer. Setting mower blades to 3 inches or higher provides shade for the soil, which keeps the ground cooler and retains moisture longer. This small change makes a big difference in drought-tolerant lawn care.
Working together to follow these rules isn’t just about avoiding penalties. It’s about being a good neighbor and protecting our state’s most precious resource. By staying informed and proactive, we can keep our communities vibrant all summer long.
Still have questions about how these rules affect your home? Reach out to us for more tips on staying compliant while keeping your yard healthy!
