General Water Saving Tips

Set a timer when adding water to your swimming pool

Very few have avoided the unfortunate experience of forgetting that a hose is adding water to the swimming pool. Water will continue to fill the pool and drain through the overflow until you remember to turn off the hose faucet. When you are away, be sure you have a dependable pool service or home watch service. We frequently find unexplained water consumption during an absence from the home, and this may be one of the reasons.

Do not use the toilet as a wastebasket

Dispose of tissues and other similar waste in the trash rather than in the toilet.

Consider using Xeriscape landscaping principles

These principles include preplanning and design, selecting the right plants, analyzing the soil, using practical turf areas, installing efficient irrigation, and using mulch and proper maintenance.

Select native Florida or drought-tolerant plants for landscaping

 Native vegetation appropriately placed will remain healthy with minimal supplemental irrigation and care.

Use turf wisely

Grass is often a yard’s largest water user. Use turf where children or pets will play or for erosion control. In other areas consider more water-thrifty alternatives such as ground covers or mulch walkways.

Raise lawn mower blades to high settings

This encourage grass roots to grow deeper and grass blades to hold moisture longer than with a closely clipped lawn.

Use mulch to help save water 

Mulch in the landscape shades the soil from direct sun so it stays moist longer. It also protects the soil from erosion and limits weed growth. Mulch should be spread 2 to 4 inches thick, with new mulch added as needed to maintain an adequate layer.

Avoid over fertilizing

Not only does fertilizing aggravate pest problems, it stimulates excessive growth, which may induce a need for more frequent watering. Also, fertilizers drain off the yard and pollute nearby waterways. For more information on ideal locations for plants, recommended Florida or drought-tolerant plant species and Xeriscape principles, review the City’s Web site, or call 239-389-5000 for a brochure on recommended plant species.