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The Last Irrigation: Knowing When to Shut Down Your Sprinkler System

The Last Irrigation: Knowing When to Shut Down Your Sprinkler System

Amy Gray |

Sprinkler Head, let’s face it, your sprinklers have had a busy year. They’ve battled summer heat, kept your fall crops alive, and maybe even made your lawn the envy of the neighborhood. But every season has its finale, and for your irrigation system, fall is when the curtain starts to close. The question is, when should you give your sprinklers their last hurrah before shutting them down?

The answer depends on your weather. As long as your soil is still workable and your plants are actively growing, keep watering lightly. Once nighttime temperatures consistently dip low, and your lawn or garden growth slows to a crawl, it’s time to ease off. Overwatering late in the season just creates soggy soil and invites root problems. Your plants don’t need marathon sessions anymore, just a little hydration to cruise into dormancy.

For lawns, a good rule of thumb is to stop irrigation once grass growth really slows down, usually after the first few frosts. For garden beds, taper off watering as your fall crops finish up. The key is not cutting your system too soon, but also not wasting water once your plants are coasting into winter.

Before shutting everything down, do yourself a favor and winterize your system. Clearing out water lines prevents frozen pipes and cracked parts when those chilly nights roll in. Shut it down the smart way, Sprinkler Head, and your system will be ready to fire back up strong in spring. And if you forget? Don't worry, Cheap Sprinklers has you covered with all your sprinkler needs!