This time of year on Long Island, we are busy winterizing irrigation systems. This is the time of year to have this important service completed. I do receive many calls from clients asking whether they should continue watering and there are several factors to consider:
New landscape versus existing landscape. If you have a new landscape then I would recommend to keep watering until November. New trees, shrubs, and lawn require watering to establish their root system. If you have an existing landscape then I would recommend winterizing your system now. This time of year, there is sufficient rainfall and moisture in the soil to provide enough water to your plants. Additionally, they are not growing or producing any new leaves, flowers, and lawn that would require a lot of water.
The days are shorter with less sunlight and the nights are cooler and, in some cases, – cold! The soil has sufficient moisture to provide all the water that existing plants and turf require. Also, we have enough rainfall to replace moisture lost due to evaporation. To continue watering is wasting water and expensive.
If you feel you must continue to irrigate your landscape then I recommend closing your system in early November. Don’t wait until its too late. Water frozen in pipes and sprinkler equipment expands and can split these components. One cold night won’t hurt your sprinkler system but a few sub-freezing nights will. The weather is unpredictable and I cannot stress enough that it is important to call 631-423-2211 or email us at irrigationspecialist@rainrich.com or message us on our facebook page and schedule the closing as soon as possible.
