Happy September and Happy Back to School! We hope you all had a great Summer and hopefully
it was one filled with at least one vacation, tasty barbecues, and with great company!

As the weather cools and the days shorten, it's easy to assume that irrigation takes a back seat to other landscape maintenance tasks. However, fall is a crucial time for ensuring both residential and commercial landscapes in Bucks County thrive through the end of the growing season and into next year. Why Fall Irrigation still matters for both homes and commercial properties, plants are still actively growing in the early fall. Trees and shrubs, in particular, use this time to develop strong root systems that will help them survive the winter. Lawns may also see a burst of growth due to cooler temperatures and increased moisture.

Ensuring that these plants receive adequate water during this period sets the stage for a healthy spring.
But it’s not just about turning on the sprinklers. To maximize the benefits of your irrigation system, you need
to focus on efficiency.

Here are a few things to think about that many home owners can easily overlook this time of the year.

Monitor rainfall and adjust systems accordingly Bucks County can see more rainfall in the fall, which means you should regularly check local precipitation levels. If your area has received sufficient rain, turn off or reduce your irrigation system to avoid overwatering. Installing a rain sensor on your system is a great way
to automate this adjustment for both residential and commercial properties.

Optimize Watering schedules for cooler weather plants need less water as the temperatures drop. Adjust your irrigation schedule to water less frequently but deeply, allowing moisture to reach the roots.
Watering in the early morning is best, as it helps minimize evaporation and prevents fungal growth.

Focus on Zones with vulnerable plants not all areas of your landscape need the same amount of water in the fall. Prioritize zones with newly planted trees, shrubs, or any plants that are still establishing their root systems. In commercial properties, this is especially important in high-traffic areas, like entrance landscapes, where aesthetic appeal matters year-round.

Inspect and Maintain Your System - Fall is an excellent time to perform a thorough inspection of your irrigation system. Check for leaks, broken sprinkler heads, and clogged nozzles. Commercial systems, which often cover larger areas, require regular checks to ensure consistent water distribution. By fixing any issues now, you’ll ensure your system is running efficiently before the end-of-season shutoff.

Mulching to Retain Moisture applying a fresh layer of mulch around plants and garden beds helps retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and reduce evaporation. This step is critical for both residential and commercial landscapes looking to conserve water while supporting plant health during the cooler months.

Closing Thoughts: Preparing for Next Season As you wrap up your fall irrigation efforts, don’t forget that what you do now will impact your landscape’s health come spring. While winterization may be top of mind for many, focusing on optimizing water use and preparing your system now will ensure that both residential and commercial landscapes stay healthy and vibrant all year long.

So as we gear up for the cooler Fall days & nights, and gather around the fire pits, keep an open mind as
to what still matters to maximize efficiency for your irrigation system. As always, thanks for checking in,
and we'll catch up next month!

- CB Irrigation Inc.