Time how long it takes to get one inch of water in the cans. Or buy a soil probe where a sample of soil can be taken and you can see how deep water is penetrating. The water department recommends using drip irrigation. Martin said drip irrigation maximizes distribution without producing runoff. Bubbler and soaker hoses also work well.
Many people prefer soakers and bubblers because the water can actually be seen.
Drip irrigation works in the ground and many people are not comfortable with what they can't see, he said. The advantage of using drip irrigation, bubblers or soakers is that no water is lost to evaporation. The worst way to water, Simpson said, is to let a hose run in one area. Water will saturate a small area and begin running off. Just maintain After all the steps have been taken to zone the yard, plant the correct plants and water efficiently, a good maintenance program is all that is needed to maximize water conservation.