Bluegrass has its place in high traffic areas, but consider a water-conserving grass for other areas where you want turf. Alternatives to turf include shrub or perennial beds, patios, decks or mulches. Improve Soil Add organic matter to your soil before you install an irrigation system or begin planting. Most Loveland soils contain more clay and less organic matter than needed for growing plants well. Add 2 to 3 cubic yards of organic matter, such as commercial compost or aged manure, for every 1,000 square feet of landscape area.
Good soil absorbs and retains water much better than poor soil.
You will be rewarded with healthy grass and good plant growth with less water. Irrigate Efficiently Plan the irrigation system at the same time you design the garden. Use the irrigation method that waters the plants in each area most efficiently. Drip, spray or bubbler emitters are most efficient for watering trees, shrubs, flowers and ground covers. Water deeply and infrequently to develop deep roots.