Saving water in desert areas of California and Arizona during the winter is crucial, especially considering the region’s arid climate. Here are some water-saving tips for the winter months:

–Adjust Irrigation Schedules: Reduce irrigation frequency. In winter, plants generally require less water due to lower temperatures and reduced evaporation. Adjust your irrigation schedule accordingly.

–Watering During Optimum Times: Water during off-peak hours. Watering during the early morning or late afternoon helps minimize evaporation and ensures that plants absorb more moisture.

–Use Mulch: Apply a layer of mulch around plants. Mulch helps retain soil moisture, reduces evaporation, and suppresses weed growth. It also acts as insulation, protecting plant roots from temperature fluctuations.

–Choose Drought-Tolerant Plants: Opt for native and drought-resistant plants. These plants are adapted to the local climate and require less water to thrive. Consider xeriscaping, which involves landscaping with water-efficient plants.

–Fix Leaks: Check and repair irrigation system leaks. Leaks waste a significant amount of water. Regularly inspect your irrigation system for leaks and fix them promptly.

–Collecting Rainwater: When it does rain, capture and store rainwater in barrels or containers. You can use this stored water for plants during drier periods.

–Install a Smart Irrigation System: Upgrade to a smart irrigation controller. These systems use weather data to adjust watering schedules, ensuring that plants receive the right amount of water based on current weather conditions.

–Group Plants with Similar Water Needs: Zone your landscape and group plants with similar water requirements together. This allows you to water different zones appropriately, providing each group with the necessary amount of water.

By implementing these water-saving measures, residents in desert areas can contribute to sustainable water usage, even during the winter months.

California is no stranger to drought, it’s a recurring feature of our climate, especially in desert areas. Arizona has been in some stage of drought since 1994(!), so drought is a long-term concept in the West. Many shifts are made for the purpose of water conservation, one of which is in landscaping. With these dry times saw a large uptick in fake lawns. 

In a recent controversial move, California Governor Gavin Newsom vetoed a bill aimed at restricting the use of “forever chemicals” in synthetic lawns. The veto highlights the state’s complex stance on artificial turf, as it was a material once promoted as a water-saving solution during droughts. The vetoed bill was part of a broader effort to address health concerns associated with synthetic turf, particularly the presence of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These chemicals, found in the crumb rubber base of artificial turf, have been linked to various chronic diseases. Despite growing worries about the environmental impact and health risks, manufacturers claim they are working to address concerns by exploring alternative materials. However, removing PFAS entirely has proven challenging.

The debate over synthetic turf in California reflects a shift in legislative priorities, with some cities already moving to ban artificial lawns due to environmental concerns. Researchers emphasize the potential health risks associated with PFAS, which can enter the human body through various pathways, including skin contact, inhalation, and water contamination.

Studies indicate that high temperatures can cause chemicals to leach out of the crumb rubber base, posing additional risks to human health. Synthetic turf, known for its heat-retaining properties, can reach temperatures significantly higher than living grass, making it a cause for concern. Experts suggest that real grass and plants offer a more sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to synthetic grass. Drought-friendly landscaping options, such as warm-season grasses and native plants, provide cooling benefits and contribute to a healthier urban ecosystem.