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The Finer Points of Hand Watering

There is an art to hand watering with a handheld hose and using one proficiently. Hand watering with a handheld hose is allowed any day and time. It’s also an enjoyable, relaxing way to spend time in your yard.

You’d be surprised how many people don’t know the finer techniques of hand watering. There’s a trick to watering efficiently without creating excessive evaporation or runoff. Our soils generally don’t allow rapid permeation, so it’s important to gradually apply small amounts of water.

  • Start at one section of your landscape and move slowly in one direction.
  • Keep moving – You don’t want to create puddles of water.
  • Repeat the process until you’ve covered your whole landscape.

Proper maintenance will extend the life of your garden hose. Always bring it in from the elements. Gently work out any kinks by hand. Coil it in loose loops, and hang it on something (but never a nail or wire hook). Treat your garden hose like a prized tool and it will serve you well for years to come.

Picture of Mark Peterson
Mark Peterson
Mark A. Peterson was a conservation project coordinator for San Antonio Water System before retiring. With over 30 years of experience as an urban forester and arborist, Mark is probably the only person you know who actually prunes trees for fun. When not expounding on the benefits of trees and limited lawns, you're likely to find him hiking San Antonio's wilderness parks or expounding on the virtues of geography and history to his friends.
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