Happy March!!!

Have you had enough of this wind yet??? We certainly have. So this month wanted to maybe throw a few things at you that you mostly likely haven't been aware of regarding your Irrigation System. Whether you have a system, or don't, this Blog should give you more than few things to think about for sure...

Irrigation is a science, but it’s also full of surprising facts that many homeowners don’t realize. While we wait for spring to fully arrive in Bucks County, why not dive into some little-known (but useful!) irrigation facts? Some may save you money, some may surprise you, and some may just give you a fun fact to share at your next gathering.

1. Wind Can Steal Your Water (Literally!)

With the extreme winds we’ve had in Bucks County recently, you might not realize that wind can cause significant water loss during irrigation. Even a mild breeze of 5–7 mph can cause sprinkler water to drift and evaporate before reaching your lawn. On especially windy days, up to
50% of irrigation water can be lost to evaporation!

💡 What to Do: If you have an automatic system, consider running it in the early morning or
later in the evening when winds tend to be calmer.

2. Overwatering Is Just as Bad as Underwatering

Many homeowners think that if their grass isn’t green, they should just add more water. The truth? Overwatering can cause just as much damage as underwatering. Too much moisture in the soil can lead to root rot, fungal growth, and even an increase in pests like mosquitoes.

💡 The Fix: A properly calibrated irrigation system with moisture sensors can help ensure your lawn gets just the right amount of water—no more, no less.

3. A Good Irrigation System Can
Save You Money (and a Lot of It!)

Did you know that a well-maintained irrigation system can reduce your water bill by 30–50%? Smart irrigation controllers, rain sensors, and drip irrigation techniques all contribute to more efficient watering, which means less waste and more savings.

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re still using an older system, upgrading to a smart controller this year might be one of the best investments you can make for your lawn and your wallet.

4. Irrigation Dates Back Thousands
of Years

Think irrigation is a modern luxury? Think again! The earliest known irrigation system dates back to 6000 B.C. in Mesopotamia, where farmers used canals to divert water to their crops. Ancient Egyptians also created irrigation systems using the Nile River’s natural flooding cycles.

💡 Modern Takeaway: While we’ve come a long way from ancient canals, the same basic principles apply—delivering water efficiently and responsibly to where it’s needed most.

5. Your Soil Type Affects How Water Moves

Not all soil is created equal when it comes to irrigation. Clay soil holds water longer but can lead to pooling, while sandy soil drains quickly and may require more frequent watering. Loamy soil, a balance of sand, silt, and clay, is considered ideal for most lawns.

💡 Test It! Grab a handful of soil from your yard, squeeze it in your hand, and see what happens:

• If it falls apart quickly, it’s sandy.
• If it clumps tightly, it’s clay-heavy.
• If it holds its shape but crumbles slightly, you’ve got loamy soil—great for irrigation!

6. Sprinkler Heads Matter More
Than You Think

Many people don’t realize that different sprinkler heads serve different purposes. Some are designed for broad coverage (great for lawns), while others focus on targeted watering (ideal for gardens or delicate plants). Using the wrong type can lead to uneven watering and wasted water.

💡 Check Your System: Make sure you’re using the right sprinklers for your yard’s specific needs. A quick inspection now can save you trouble later in the season.

7. Rainwater Is Better Than Tap
Water for Your Lawn

Ever notice how grass looks greener after a natural rainfall? That’s because rainwater is
oxygen-rich and free of hard minerals that can sometimes be present in tap water.

💡 Fun Idea: If you want to make use of this natural resource, consider installing a rain barrel
to collect water for use in your garden!

Irrigation is Smarter Than Ever

Whether it’s battling the wind, using smarter irrigation techniques, or simply understanding how water interacts with soil, there’s always more to learn about keeping your landscape healthy. As we move closer to spring, now is the perfect time to start thinking about how you can improve your irrigation habits for a greener, more efficient lawn this year.

Thanks as always for checking in with us. Have a great March, stay safe and hopefully
next month we're discussing beautiful weather with an early Spring!

- CB Irrigation Inc.