Beatriss Calhoun, Water Resources Extension Agent & Sarah Waickowski, Assistant Professor
As spring approaches, planning your outdoor household needs are always beneficial. A basic plan can help save money and benefit your community’s environment and beyond. By incorporating a few simple practices listed below, whether it’s managing lawn care more efficiently, reducing the need for expensive fertilizers, or preventing costly stormwater damage, a little preparation can go a long way. With a well-organized plan, you’ll be able to tackle your spring tasks quickly and effectively, leaving you more time to enjoy the season ahead.
Tip 1: Assess Your Lawn and Landscaping
- Why it matters: Runoff from lawns can carry fertilizers, pesticides, pollutants, and sediment into storm drains.
- Soil Samples and Percolation Test: Sending your soil sample for testing can give you a baseline of what your soil needs and removes the guesswork. This can save you money and time when planning your home landscape.
- Choose native plants: Having the right plant in the right place reduces the risk of issues in your home landscape. Native plants require less water and fertilizer, reducing runoff. The South Carolina Native Plant Society’s Native Plant Directory is a good source to plan your landscape needs.
- Limit fertilizer use: Apply fertilizers only when necessary and avoid overuse.
- The Benefits of Organic Mulch: Organic mulch is made of natural substances, such as leaves, bark, wood chips, and pine needles. Adding mulch to your home landscape can help prevent erosion and retain soil moisture. It can also reduce the need for frequent weeding and add nutrients to your soil as it decays. For more information, please refer to Mulch article found in Clemson Extension Home and Garden Information Center.
Tip 2: Clean Gutters and Downspouts
- Why it matters: Clogged gutters can cause overflow and direct runoff to less than ideal locations or cause unplanned roof repairs.
- Clear out leaves and debris to allow for proper water flow. Adequate water flow will prevent potential mosquito habitats from forming.
- Make sure to observe your gutter outlet to prevent soil erosion. Adding pinned landscaping fabric with stones or pavers overlaying the fabric can soften the impact of water flowing from your gutter system.
- Consider installing a rainwater diverter or a rain barrel to collect and reuse stormwater.
Tip 3: Manage Impervious Surfaces
- Why it matters: Impervious surfaces (driveways, walkways, patios) increase unfiltered runoff’s chance to flow directly to storm drains.
- Install permeable pavers: These allow water to soak through, into the underlaying soil, which reduces runoff. You can also use gravel, French Drains, and well-placed plant beds to allow water to soak into the ground.
- Plan Before You Spray: Pressure washing to remove oil stains or debris can contaminate stormwater. Make sure to protect your storm drain with a filtering method.
Tip 4: Proper Yard Waste Disposal
- Why it matters: Yard waste left in the street can block storm drains and contribute to water pollution and flooding.
- Compost leaves and grass clippings: Composting reduces waste while improving soil health. If you are unable to compost, please check your local government site for waste collection schedules and services.
- Avoid blowing debris into storm drains or curb inlets: Keep leaves and debris out of gutters and storm drains to ensure proper water flow when you need it most. Clogged storm drains will lead to increased flooding in and or around your community.
Tip 5: Consider Installing Rain Gardens
- Why it matters: Rain gardens help capture and filter stormwater before it enters the drainage system and, in some areas, reduce flooding in your home landscape.
- On rainy days, observe how water moves on your landscape. If you see stormwater concerns like water pooling, sediment moving, and more, you can explore if a rain garden is right for you.
- Ensure that plants used in your rain garden are native and can absorb excess water.
Tip 6: Check and Repair Water Outlets
- Why it matters: From irrigation systems or outdoor spigots to indoor plumbing, checking for leaks and repairs is very cost-saving and great for water quality.
- Actionable Tips:
- Inspect your irrigation system for leaks or broken components.
- Adjust sprinklers to avoid watering sidewalks or driveways.
- Check and repair connections to ensure proper water flow and reduce water waste.
In conclusion, preparing your home for spring while keeping stormwater quality in mind doesn’t have to be overwhelming. It’s about making a few thoughtful changes that benefit your home landscape and the environment. By managing your lawn care, maintaining your gutters, and reducing unnecessary runoff, you’re protecting your property and contributing to a healthier environment. Small steps like composting yard waste, installing rain gardens, and ensuring efficient water outlets can lead to long-term savings and peace of mind.
References:
https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/mulch/
https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/soil-testing/
https://www.clemson.edu/public/regulatory/ag-srvc-lab/soil-testing/index.html
https://www.charleston-sc.gov/348/Trash-Yard-Waste-Collection
https://scnps.org/plants/
https://www.clemson.edu/extension/raingarden/virtual-rain-garden.html
https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/an-introduction-to-porous-pavement/
Clemson University Cooperative Extension Service offers its programs to people of all ages, regardless of race, color, gender, religion, national origin, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital or family status and is an equal opportunity employer.
