The guide

Drip delivers water slowly at the root zone, cutting evaporation and runoff dramatically compared with overhead spray.

• Use drip, bubbler, micro-spray or soaker systems for shrubs, trees and beds; reserve spray heads for turf.
• Water deeply and infrequently to push roots down; schedule by season and weather, not a fixed calendar.
• Add a WaterSense smart controller and a rain shutoff.
• Check emitters for clogs, flush lines, and mulch over the tubing.
• Water early morning to beat evaporation and wind.