Switch to a Fall Watering Schedule for Efficient Water Use

As summer transitions into fall, it's important to adjust your outdoor watering habits. Even if the temperature feels just as warm, your lawn and landscape require less water in September and October than in July. The reason? The days are getting shorter.

From June 21, the summer solstice, to December 21, the winter solstice, daylight hours gradually decrease. In Contra Costa County, daylight shrinks by over 6.5 hours during this period. Additionally, the sun's angle lowers as we move towards the cooler months, resulting in less solar radiation. This combination of shorter days and a lower sun angle reduces the water needs of your lawn and landscape.

To optimize water use and take advantage of the changing seasons, we encourage you to "fall back" into water savings by reducing your lawn and landscape watering. Following a seasonal watering schedule conserves water while ensuring your plants thrive with just the right amount of hydration.

For guidance, check out our Lawn and Landscape Watering Schedule (PDF), which provides recommendations on how many days per week to water during non-drought conditions. These adjustments can help you make the most of every drop as we head into the cooler months.