Irrigation Startups & Mulching | How They Benefit Each Other

What are irrigation startups? Irrigation startups are actions that are performed to reactivate irrigation systems after the winter season. Typically, during early spring. It involves turning on a water supply by slowly turning on the main valve, inspecting it for leaks and damage, reviewing and adjusting irrigation zones, adjusting sprinkler heads, programming the controller to the appropriate watering cycles you want, checking the backflow prevention device, and lastly, making necessary repairs if there is damage.
As you can see, it is a lengthy process, and it is recommended that you seek professional help if you are unsure what to do. However, how can you do your part to ensure it runs smoothly? One simple and surprising thing you can do is mulching! Learn how mulching can help lessen any issues or problems your irrigation startup may incur.

How Mulching Enhances Irrigation Startups’ Impact

It Reduces Irrigation Frequency

One way mulching can impact irrigation startups is by reducing the frequency of irritation required. How is this achieved? One of the mulch’s sole purposes is to act as a protective layer over the soil. It will reduce evaporation and retain moisture in the root zone of your plants for longer periods. By doing this, plants will access water more easily and help extend the intervals between irrigation cycles. This can help lower your water bills. As a result of reduced water loss, it will also minimize surface evaporation and runoff. It will help the water infiltrate the soil better. Studies have shown that mulching can reduce cumulative irrigation needs by 20-30%!

It Enhances Soil Health

Besides the benefits it provides in improving soil moisture and water absorption, it can also enhance the health of your soil structure. Organic mulches, which are made up of organic materials like wood or decomposed living matter, can improve soil porosity and water infiltration. This will enable it to reduce the need for frequent watering. It will also help moderate the temperature of the soil, making it maintain consistent moisture levels aside from just improving moisture levels. Integrating high-quality mulch to complement your irrigation startup helps conserve resources and support healthier plant growth.

Additional Irrigation Startup Strategies for your Yard

Integrate Weather-Based Systems

improving your irrigation system. This will improve water efficiency and have a direct impact on your mulch. If you have a poor irrigation system that drips and leaks, it can affect your mulch by making the ground always wet and causing inconsistent moisture levels. One way you can do this is through weather-based irrigation systems.

You can get this through Weather-based irrigation controllers (WBICs). Also known as smart controllers. These irrigation systems will use real-time weather data and variables like soil type, plant type, and slope of your property to adjust watering schedules. They will also calculate evapotranspiration, which is the amount of water lost through soil evaporation and plant transpiration. They will then only release the ideal amount of water your garden needs with these calculations and factors they weigh.

Combine it With a Drip Irrigation System

These systems don’t just help your garden thrive and enhance your mulching efforts; they also promote sustainable water conservation efforts. Another excellent way to promote water conservation and maximize your irrigation startup system is through drip irrigation. A drip irrigation system is a great way to improve plant health, control weeds, and save money by reducing water bills. It even has the potential eligibility for water conservation rebates. Your garden will be all the better once you have a drip irrigation system installed and incorporate WBIC strategies. Applying drip irrigation, WBIC, and mulching will protect your garden from pests and weeds, reduce the risk of being overwatered, lower your water bills, and enhance your soil. Sounds like a pretty good setup to us!