In general, 1. Repair all leaks in your hoses and faucets. Use a pistol-grip nozzle that shuts off when you are not using it. Turn off faucets when not in use. For turf, water at night - little evaporation occurs and since the blades of grass are already wet from dew, the risk of disease is lowered. Improve the water-holding capacity of soils by incorporating compost or other organic matter into the soil and by using mulch.
Mulches decrease runoff during storms, providing more water for plant growth.
Mulches reduce water loss from evaporation and promote water gene- tration by reducing compaction. Select and plant drought-tolerant varieties of plants that require minimal amounts of water. Group plants with similar water needs together. Keep sprinkler heads clean to prevent uneven watering and clogging. Do not let water runoff.