Fall has officially arrived, and it feels phenomenal! As the leaves turn and the air cools, it’s time to start preparing our homes for the coming winter months. In regenerative landscaping we think one season ahead, planning today to support the health and resilience of the ecosystem tomorrow. One of the most critical steps in this preparation process is irrigation winterization.
Your irrigation system has been working hard all season to support the growth and vitality of your landscape, especially if it's supporting plants in their primary establishment period. As we head into winter, it’s important to protect this essential part of your yard’s infrastructure from the challenges posed by freezing temperatures. Here’s what you need to know about irrigation winterization and how it benefits your regenerative landscape.
Why Winterizing Your Irrigation System is Essential
Newly installed irrigation boxes in the utility area at a project in Glenrose.
PREVENTING DAMAGE FROM FREEZING
In our dryland ecosystem, a functioning irrigation system is crucial for keeping your landscape healthy. From getting native plants established, supporting fruit and vegetable crops, or just getting the yard through a dry spell, it's important to keep your irrigation system in consistent working condition. When water is left in the pipes and components during winter, it freezes, expands, and causes significant damage. Cracked pipes, broken valves, and damaged driplines and sprinkler heads are common issues when systems aren’t properly winterized. Taking the time to blow out your irrigation lines and protect your system means avoiding costly repairs and ensuring everything is ready to go next spring.
PRESERVING SYSTEM LONGEVITY
Regenerative landscapes are designed to be low-maintenance and self-sustaining, but there are still seasonal tasks that are necessary to keep things properly working. Winterizing your system is a vital part of routine maintenance that ensures a healthy lifespan for your irrigation. By clearing out water and shutting down the system correctly, you’re reducing preserving the investment you’ve made in creating a thriving, resilient landscape.
What Does Irrigation Winterization Involve?
THE BLOWOUT PROCESS
Winterizing your irrigation system involves using compressed air to blow out any remaining water in the pipes and components. This ensures that nothing is left behind to freeze and expand, which can cause damage. While some might attempt this process on their own, it’s important to remember that using too much or too little air pressure can damage your system (Why we recommend calling the pros for help).
INSPECTING AND SECURING
Winterization is also an excellent opportunity to inspect your system for any issues. Small leaks, broken sprinkler heads, or malfunctioning valves can be identified now, so they don’t become bigger problems later. Take time to secure and prepare all system components, ensuring they’re protected from the elements.
ADJUSTING YOUR IRRIGATION CONTROLLER
Don’t forget about your irrigation controller! It's important to adjust it to ensure it’s set for the off-season, preventing your valves from moving when they shouldn't.
Why Choose Professional Winterization?
While it’s tempting to tackle winterization yourself, regenerative landscapes often involve a variety of irrigation techniques, including drip systems and custom watering zones tailored to native plants. Each system has unique needs, and a professional team can ensure that your irrigation is thoroughly and safely winterized. Additionally, home air compressor setups aren't usually sufficient for properly and safely blowing out an irrigation system.
Planning for the Season Ahead
At Dryland Revival, we’re dedicated to the principles of regenerative landscaping, and that means thinking ahead. Preparing your irrigation system for winter is just one step in our commitment to keeping your landscape resilient and thriving. Taking care of these details now sets the stage for a vibrant and healthy garden next spring.
If you’re interested in having your irrigation system professionally winterized, we’re here to help. Fill out or contact form to ensure your landscape is ready for the winter months ahead. Here's a link: drylandrevival.com/contact
By taking these steps now, you’re not just protecting your irrigation system—you’re investing in the future health of your entire regenerative landscape. Let’s work together to keep your garden thriving, no matter what the seasons bring.
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