Smarter Design = Smarter Irrigation

Title: Smarter Irrigation Starts with Smarter Design — Florida BMPs in Action

At Hogan Landscapes, we believe irrigation isn’t just about watering—it's about watering wisely. That’s why our approach follows Florida’s Best Management Practices (BMPs), helping protect water resources, prevent runoff, and preserve the long-term health of your landscape.

Right Plant, Right Place: The Foundation of Efficient Irrigation

One of the most overlooked keys to efficient irrigation is proper plant selection. Florida BMPs emphasize “Right Plant, Right Place” for good reason.

• Full-sun areas should be planted with heat-tolerant turf or ornamentals like Zoysia grass, Lantana, or Muhly Grass, reducing the need for constant irrigation.

• Shaded zones may benefit from drought-tolerant groundcovers, ferns, or shade-tolerant turf like St. Augustine ‘Seville’ or native plants that require less water and fewer inputs.

By aligning your plant choices with sun exposure, soil conditions, and natural water flow, we reduce the need to over-irrigate and prevent disease from excessive moisture.

Turfgrass vs. Ornamental Beds: One Size Doesn’t Fit All

Turf areas and ornamental beds require different irrigation strategies:

• Turfgrass zones benefit from rotor or spray systems scheduled early in the morning for deep, infrequent watering. Overwatering turf can lead to fungus and pest issues.

• Ornamental beds, especially when mulched properly, hold moisture better and should be placed on separate drip or micro-irrigation zones to avoid water waste and over-saturation.

At Hogan, we actively separate zones based on plant type and location to dial in the perfect run times for each area.

Full Sun vs. Shade: Zone Adjustments Matter

Sun exposure dramatically affects soil moisture levels. A zone in full sun dries out faster than one under tree canopy or next to a building.

Our irrigation techs regularly adjust zones to reflect this:

• Full sun zones may run slightly longer during peak summer.

• Shaded zones are reduced or turned off during rainy periods to avoid soggy beds and root rot.

Weekly and monthly inspections allow us to monitor conditions and fine-tune the system as your landscape grows and matures.

Let Hogan Landscapes Help You Water Smarter

Our Irrigation Management Consulting team is trained in Florida BMPs and equipped with the tools and experience to keep your system running efficiently. From property assessments and zoning optimization to controller programming and water audits, we protect your landscape—and your budget.