A rain sensor is a device that will temporarily shut down your irrigation system in case of rain. Sensors can be pre-set to activate at different rainfall amounts, starting at 1/8”. Wired or wireless, a sensor can save you money, and conserve valuable water resources. Not every irrigation clock will accept a sensor, though most modern models do.
“Smart controllers” are the newest technological innovation in water management. Models vary, but in short the controller gets very precise satellite information, and waters your lawn according to specific needs. Primarily an advantage on large properties, smart controllers automatically adjust to seasons, wind conditions, solar radiation, types of plants, etc.
The cost of rain sensors or smart controllers will vary, but in many applications a simple sensor will be under $100.00, with interactive controller systems ranging upward of $500.00. Researching which one would be the ideal investment for you is no more difficult than using a Mozo-like system to compare the best assets of each choice, and soon you can have it installed and running.
Your water savings can vary year to year, but using all the tools at our disposal, we can get your irrigation system running at its maximum efficiency.
Add value to your landscape and your life with trees and shrubs
One of the best returns you can get on an investment dollar is the value returned from a well-designed landscape. Trees and shrubs add value in many ways. They provide shade during hot summer months, give shelter from harsh winter winds, and add color with spring and summer flowers, trade pure oxygen for carbon dioxide, and shelter birds and other creatures. The right plant for a site, planted properly and correctly maintained will add thousands in real value to your property. Here are some guide lines for picking the right landscape plants for your site:
Choose a tree based on its mature height, not it’s size in the nursery. Some trees grow too large for small urban home sites. Too small and you won’t get all the potential shade benefits. Research your plants, or consult a trained professional.
Choose shrubs that fulfil your needs. Tall shrubs don’t belong in front of windows. Shrubs that have thorns may be exactly right in front of a window, but not good next to a walkway. The cute little plant at the garden center might grow into a monster before you know it.
Many trees, shrubs, perennials and ornamental grasses use less water than turf grasses and really have lower maintenance needs over their life span. While initial costs might be higher, potential returns are greater. Saving water, time and energy and having a greater return at re-sale time makes sense and cents.
“Edibles” in the landscape
Not unlike the victory gardens of the 1940’s, home gardens today can be a great source of high quality food for almost everyone.
Whether you simply grow one or two tomatoes on the patio, or opt for an attractive raised bed system, the reward will be veggies that are fresh and are free of unknown toxins.
Here are a few things to keep in mind. Don’t use wood treated with toxic preservatives. Use floating row covers and hoop enclosures to extend the season. Simple roofs with window screen covers will keep your crop safe from hailstorms. Locate your garden to get at least 6 hours of sunshine daily. Simple drip watering systems keep veggies growing, and don’t tie up all your time.
Even if you don’t have a lot of time to garden, there is a system that will work for you. GreenSong can help, from set up to maintenance, even advice and consulting.
One of the best returns you can get on an investment dollar is the value returned from a well-designed landscape. Trees and shrubs add value in many ways. They provide shade during hot summer months, give shelter from harsh winter winds, and add color with spring and summer flowers, trade pure oxygen for carbon dioxide, and shelter birds and other creatures. The right plant for a site, planted properly and correctly maintained will add thousands in real value to your property. Here are some guide lines for picking the right landscape plants for your site:
Choose a tree based on its mature height, not it’s size in the nursery. Some trees grow too large for small urban home sites. Too small and you won’t get all the potential shade benefits. Research your plants, or consult a trained professional.
Choose shrubs that fulfil your needs. Tall shrubs don’t belong in front of windows. Shrubs that have thorns may be exactly right in front of a window, but not good next to a walkway. The cute little plant at the garden center might grow into a monster before you know it.
Many trees, shrubs, perennials and ornamental grasses use less water than turf grasses and really have lower maintenance needs over their life span. While initial costs might be higher, potential returns are greater. Saving water, time and energy and having a greater return at re-sale time makes sense and cents.
Winterizing
Gardening
Landscaping
Aeration
Irrigation
Maintenance
... and more!
Start your irrigation system
When nighttime temps stay above freezing, it’s time to start your irrigation system. It’s also a great time to check system operation. Water leaking from the back flow prevention device may mean you need a new O-ring, or even a new bonnet. Visibly inspect the valve manifold, check all zones for proper operation, replace the wafer in your rain sensor, and your are ready for summer!
Water features in the home landscape
Water features are things like ponds, fountains, and waterfalls. Often considered high maintenance, expensive, or wasteful, water features can get a bad rap. The truth is, water features use less water per square foot than blue grass turf. The sound of gently running water is a known stress reliever, and can help block out the sounds of a busy neighborhood. As a focal point, few things surpass a well-designed system, and water is one of the keys to attracting birds and butterflies. Simple periodic maintenance will keep your system running clean and healthy.
Another misconception is that water features breed mosquitoes. Mosquitoes breed in standing water, and they will not breed in running water. For ponds, there are several safe and effective remedies to keep your system bug free.
A pond, waterfall or fountain might be just what you need to help create your perfect outdoor space.
Prepare your irrigation system for the winter and restart it in the spring. Without proper preparation your sprinkler system can be badly damaged by freezing temperatures! We will determine the best method to winterize your irrigation system for the cold months, including drain valves and pressurized blow out. This is very important in the Colorado Springs area, where it freezes in winter.
