Valparaiso City Services Encourages Smart Lawn Watering to Conserve Water and Promote Healthier Lawns

During this intense heat, lawns also struggle to thrive. Valparaiso City Services is reminding residents to water wisely and adopt smart irrigation practices that save water, save money and help grow healthier lawns. 

“Small changes in the way we water our lawns can make a big impact,” said Steve Poulos, Executive Director of Valparaiso City Services. “We encourage residents to water wisely — to conserve this vital resource and extend the life of our groundwater wells as we build stronger, greener lawns.” 

Tips for watering your lawn effectively include:

• Water at the Right Time: Early morning (between 4:00 am to 8:00 am) is best to reduce evaporation and allow moisture to soak in. 
• Water Deeply but Infrequently: Watering deeply one to two times a week encourages deeper root growth, making grass more resilient. 
• Mow High: Taller grass (2–3 inches) shades the soil, helps retain moisture, and fights drought. 
• Improve Soil Health: Aerate your lawn and apply mulch around plants and garden beds to retain water and reduce evaporation. 
• Leave Grass Clippings: Grass clippings decompose quickly and return moisture and nutrients to the soil. 
• Use Smart Irrigation: Adjust sprinklers to avoid watering sidewalks and driveways.
• Check for Leaks: Regularly inspect hoses and irrigation systems to prevent water waste. 
• Collect Rainwater: Use rain barrels or redirect gutters to collect water for later use. The city offers an active rain barrel program—learn more at tinyurl.com/2emyv8kn.

By making these simple adjustments, residents can help conserve water during peak summer demand while keeping lawns healthy and vibrant. For more information and helpful links, visit valparaisocityutilities.org.