An inch of water per week
Seattle’s Dry Spell: How to Care for Lawns and Gardens
Seattle recently experienced one of its driest streaks in decades—50 straight days without rain, just shy of the 1951 record. For gardeners and homeowners, that means lawns and landscapes may need a little extra attention.
Even drought-tolerant, well-established plants can struggle during prolonged dry spells. If you’re watering, do it early in the morning to reduce evaporation. Aim for deep watering—about one inch per week—rather than frequent, shallow watering. Shallow watering encourages surface roots, which are more vulnerable to heat and drought.
How Much is One Inch of Water?
Roughly six gallons per square yard. To measure how long it takes your sprinkler to deliver that:
- Place 5 empty cans (like tuna cans) around your yard.
- Run your sprinkler for 30 minutes.
- Measure the water in each can, average the results. This tells you how much water your system delivers in that time.
Pro Tips for Smarter Watering
- Use a smart controller: WaterSense-labeled devices use weather data to water only when needed.
- Inspect your system: Check for leaks or misaligned sprinkler heads.
- Group by zones: Organize plants by water needs, sunlight, and soil type to avoid over- or under-watering.
The EPA also offers a helpful outdoor water-saving guide with more ways to protect your landscape—and the environment—during dry months.