By August, many landscapes in Middle Tennessee are showing signs of stress — not just from the heat, but possibly from inefficient irrigation systems that waste water, raise utility costs, and fail to deliver the coverage plants need.
An irrigation system isn’t a set-it-and-forget-it feature. To keep it working efficiently — and cost-effectively — it needs seasonal attention.
“Smart irrigation is one of the best ways businesses can control landscape costs. With a few upgrades and routine checks, we can save thousands of gallons of water a season and still maintain a healthy, attractive property.”
— Patrick Haller, President of Haller’s Landscaping and Nursery, Inc.
Key Irrigation Priorities
- Check for Leaks, Clogs, and Broken Heads: Even a small leak or damaged sprinkler head can waste hundreds of gallons of water a month. Inspect zones for pooling water, low-pressure areas, or overspray onto sidewalks and hardscapes. Addressing these issues early prevents both plant stress and property damage. (Tip: Schedule a mid-season inspection; Turfgrass Producers International recommends biannual checkups to maximize performance.)
- Adjust Timing and Frequency: In Middle Tennessee, August brings severe heat alongside late-summer storms. Overwatering during this time harms root systems and encourages disease. Adjust your schedule to early morning watering, reducing frequency while increasing duration to promote deeper root growth.
- Upgrade to Smart Controllers: Smart irrigation controllers use weather sensors to automatically adjust watering schedules. According to the University of Tennessee Extension, these systems can reduce water usage by 20–40% without compromising plant health.
- Switch to Drip or Low-Flow Systems: Drip irrigation or low-flow emitters deliver water directly to root zones, cutting down on evaporation and runoff. These systems are ideal for foundation plantings, signage beds, and pedestrian-heavy areas where overspray creates slippery walkways.
- Mulch for Moisture Retention: While not part of the irrigation hardware itself, a fresh layer of mulch reduces surface evaporation and keeps soil temperatures stable, making the most of every gallon applied.
Think Ahead, Save More
Efficient irrigation isn’t just about conservation — it’s about cost control, long-term sustainability, and presenting a polished, professional exterior.
By making a few targeted adjustments now, businesses can reduce operating costs, extend system life, and prepare their landscapes for the seasonal transition ahead.
For help optimizing or upgrading your commercial irrigation system, call Haller’s at 931-261-5885 and follow us on Facebook.