October Topics: Winter overseeding and lawn watering guidelines, registration is open for the Tree Pruning and Tool Care Workshop

On Aug. 16, 2022, the Bureau of Reclamation declared a Drought Contingency Plan (DCP) Tier 2a shortage for 2023. Tempe currently remains in Stage 0 – Watch of the Drought Preparedness Plan (DPP), which ensures Tempe has strategies in place to predict, prepare for and react to shortages in order to meet the demands of the water service area now and into the future. At this time, there are no restrictions on customer usage due to the drought, but Tempe continues to raise awareness of drought conditions and encourage customers to seek additional voluntary conservation measures they can implement in their homes and businesses. Water conservation and efficiency are vital to a sustainable future here in the desert, and practical water-wise lifestyle changes will impact the community’s water future. 

Tempe offers resources, rebates, incentives and services to help customers reduce water consumption

- Consider whether to overseed (plant winter grass).

- Register for a WaterSmart account.

Already registered? Log In Here.

- Explore resources for homeowner associations.

- Transform the yard into a desert-adapted landscape and consider applying for Water Conservation rebates and incentives.

- Water the yard efficiently and effectively by following landscape watering guidelines.

- Find and fix visible and hidden leaks indoors and out by visiting tempe.gov/leaks.

Watch Tempe’s local drought response video:

Winter Grass Overseeding

Water three to four times per day for two weeks. The key to proper winter overseeding is to water often, but not for very long. Establishing winter grass takes about two weeks. Plan on watering three to four times a day for 2-5 minutes to keep the seeds wet so they germinate. Long watering cycles are not needed since there are no roots yet.

Water one to two times per week once roots are established. Taper back watering cycles and increase the irrigation run time duration after the second mow. Then aim to water one to two times per week, allowing the water to reach a depth of 6-10 inches. 

Make Adjustments: Achieving this schedule takes time, but Tempe Water Conservation has plenty of resources to help such as this blog on Proper Planting of Winter Grass. Contact [email protected] or call 480-350-8351 for more information.

Click Here to view the City Of Tempe Water Conservation eNewsletter - October 2022