How Shorter Days Affect Landscapes in San Diego County
With the first weekend of November coming up, it’s time to turn back the clocks and get used to the shorter days ahead. Shorter daylight hours also mean reduced water use, so it’s time to turn down your sprinkler systems and/or make some adjustments.
Shorter Days, Shorter Watering Times
In San Diego County, much of the over-watering happens during the fall season. That’s because many maintain their summer watering schedule. However, by adjusting your irrigation system before you turn back the clock, you can conserve water and save money on your water bill.
With shorter days, the sun’s lower arc creates longer shadows. With longer shadows, areas in your landscape that receive full sun in the summer may be left in the dark once winter arrives. If you’re planning to do some planting, account for the longer shadows.
Tip: If you have a modern irrigation controller, use the seasonal adjustment feature to adjust watering properly.
The Revival of Dormant, Native Plants
From flowers and groundcovers to shrubs and trees, when it comes to native plants, San Diego County has a variety of beautiful options for your landscape. The native plants in our region have adapted to our Mediterranean climate, meaning many go dormant during June, July, and August, the driest and hottest months in San Diego County. During their dormancy, native plants will drop their leaves and look a bit wilted. But as the shorter days and eventual rainfall arrive, many of those dormant native plants begin to “wake up.”
Short-day plants
Shorter days make it the best time to plant native species, like California poppies. Sure, we’ll likely experience some warmer temperatures. Still, cooler temperatures will be here before you know it, and once the winter rains arrive, they will help plants get established.
Many plants stop growing entirely, especially when the number of daylight hours drops below 10. Then there are “short-day” plants that bloom in response to shorter days. Short-day plants include area favorites such as chrysanthemums and poinsettias.
Consider replacing your water-thirsty lawn
Now is a good time to consider replacing your water-thirsty lawn. After all, lawns need a lot of water. Waterwise landscaping is an excellent choice for commercial landscapes in San Diego County. There is a wide range of drought-tolerant, water-wise plants that thrive in our region’s Mediterranean climate.
Caution: Increased Wildfire Risk
While turning back the clocks means shorter days and the end of those long, hot summer days, there is also a heightened risk of wildfire. Several factors increase the risk of wildfire, such as Santa Ana winds, which are prevalent during this time of year, and dry brush. Consider creating a defensible space, and if your commercial or HOA property in San Diego County requires weed abatement, contact us ASAP.
Experience Quality Service. The Difference...Is Growing
While turning back the clock is a controversial topic, it's still a way of life in San Diego County. At Westturf Landscape Maintenance, enhancing the landscape of HOAs, apartment communities, and a wide range of commercial properties throughout San Diego County is our way of life — we've been doing it since 1972!
If you're searching for a commercial landscape maintenance service company you can depend on, look no further than Westturf Landscape.
Call us at 760-650-3120 or message us online for a free quote.
Let's work together
Do you have a landscaping project in mind? is it time for a new HOA landscaping company? Westturf Landscape Management is ready to help. We offer a wide range of services, from synthetic turf installation to weed and brush clearance and complete landscape transformations. When it comes to quality, efficient landscaping services, we have you covered.
We are looking forward to hearing from you.
Westturf Landscape Management
701 Mercantile Street
Vista, CA 92083
Phone: 760.650.3120