Controller programming is one of the most important factors in maintaining a healthy and attractive landscape. At Details Landscape Art, we design and build beautiful gardens throughout Sonoma County, but even the best plant selection and installation can struggle without proper irrigation scheduling.
For purposes of this discussion, we will use the Rain Dial HR6100 irrigation controller as an example. The same programming principles, however, apply to most irrigation controllers.
Let us assume a landscape with two lawn sprinkler valves, one drip irrigation valve for shrubs and perennials, and one valve serving a vegetable garden.
Controller Programming for Lawns
We typically assign lawn sprinklers to Program A.
For established lawns, a common summer schedule is every three days with a run time of approximately fifteen minutes per valve. We prefer to schedule lawn watering during the early morning hours, often around 5:00 a.m., when evaporation and wind are minimal.
Every landscape is different, so run times may need adjustment depending on sprinkler type, soil conditions, slope, and weather.
The objective is deep, healthy watering without excessive runoff.
Controller Programming for Drip Irrigation
Drip irrigation is generally assigned to Program B.
Established shrubs, trees, and perennial plantings usually require less frequent watering than lawns. Depending on the maturity of the landscape, drip irrigation may be programmed to operate every three, four, or even five days.
Drip systems often require longer run times because water is applied slowly and directly to the root zone.
Proper controller programming encourages deeper rooting and healthier plants while conserving water.
Controller Programming for Vegetable Gardens
Vegetable gardens typically require their own watering schedule because they have different moisture requirements than ornamental plants.
We often assign vegetable gardens to Program C.
During the growing season, vegetable gardens may require watering every day or every other day, depending on weather conditions, soil type, and the crops being grown.
Using a separate program allows vegetables to receive adequate water without overwatering the rest of the landscape.
Using Multiple Start Times
One of the most useful controller programming features is the ability to utilize multiple start times.
This feature is particularly beneficial on slopes.
When too much water is applied at one time, runoff may occur before the soil can absorb the moisture. Instead of running a valve for fifteen consecutive minutes, the watering can be divided into several shorter cycles spread throughout the day.
For example, three five-minute watering cycles often provide better absorption than one fifteen-minute cycle.
This technique is especially effective for lawn sprinklers and hillside drip irrigation systems.
Manual Watering Functions
Most irrigation controllers include manual watering functions that allow homeowners to apply supplemental water when necessary.
During periods of extreme heat or after installing new plant material, additional watering may be beneficial.
The semi-automatic feature allows an entire program to run as scheduled, while manual operation allows a specific valve to be operated for a selected number of minutes.
Once the manual cycle is complete, the controller automatically resumes its normal schedule.
Battery Backup and Other Helpful Features
The Rain Dial HR6100 includes a battery backup that preserves programming during temporary power outages.
Although the battery will not operate the valves, it maintains the controller’s memory so watering schedules are not lost.
Another useful feature is the ability to assign a valve to more than one program. This can be helpful when a portion of a landscape requires supplemental watering beyond its normal schedule.
For example, annual flowers sharing a drip zone with established shrubs may benefit from a short daily watering cycle in addition to the regular drip irrigation schedule.
Good Controller Programming Saves Water
Effective controller programming is about providing the right amount of water to the right plants at the right time.
Separate programs for lawns, drip irrigation, and vegetable gardens allow each area of the landscape to receive appropriate irrigation. Multiple start times, manual functions, and seasonal adjustments further improve efficiency.
At Details Landscape Art, proper controller programming is one of the keys to maintaining healthy, beautiful landscapes throughout Sonoma and Napa Counties.