Quiz Answers

1. False. The most efficient watering method is a drip system.  Flood irrigation applies water too fast for the ground to soak it up.  Sprinklers send water into the air which results in evaporation or the wind blows it away before it touches the ground.  Drip irrigation systems are an easy do-it-yourself project for gardens, trees, shrubs, or other hard to water areas.  Drip systems can be used by those who water with hoses or automatic sprinkler systems.

2. True.  On average most turf requires only an inch of water a week.  When the outside temperatures spike above 90 degrees additional water may be needed.  Most of the lawns in the Lewis Clark Valley are cool weather grasses which means in the heat of the summer they go dormant by turning yellow.  Yes, you may think your grass is dead but wait till fall and it will green up again.

3. True.  Let mother nature do the work for you.  A hearty rain eliminates the need to water for about two weeks.  If the temperature gets hot and stays hot you may need to supplement what Mother Nature provided with additional watering.  Remember, nothing looks more wasteful than watering when it is raining.  Automatic sprinkler systems can be the worst for this and there is an easy fix.  Install a rain sensor on your system to keep the sprinklers for coming on in the rain. 

4. False.  The middle of the day is the worse time to apply water.  The sun can burn your plants when the water droplets cling to plant leaves or blades of grass. Sprinkling water in the heat of the day is when water evaporation is at its worse.  The best time to water is in the early morning.  

5. True.  The benefits of mulch are endless. Mulch is an organic matter such as, wood chips, grass clipping, or other other materials which improve soil as they decompose.  A layer of mulch will prevent the germination of many weeds, keep the soil temperature cooler, help retain moisture, and reduce the need for watering. If you haven't considered using mulch you may want to reconsider.  It can also enhance the look of your home.

Your awesomeness impresses us! Thanks for taking the time to find the answers to the quiz.  Your interest in becoming a better water steward is making a difference in our District.  As your reward, please get yourself something nice. Share your water smarts with the rest of the world.  You must be doing your part and watering smart! We need a few more patrons like YOU!