Now is the right time to prevent weed

With expected temperatures to dip down into the teens in the next few days, here are some tips to help you avoid costly repairs to your backflow and irrigation system: Step 1: Turn on the lowest zone. From the controller, turn on the irrigation zone that is at the lowest elevation point on your property – if you’re not certain, use your best judgement. Step 2: Shut the water off. Locate the shut-off valve for your irrigation system. This is usually located by your water meter in a box in the ground, but not always. Older systems might not have an isolation valve for the irrigation system and you might need to shut the water using the backflow preventer – consider getting an isolation valve installed if you do not have one since the backflow preventer should not be used regularly to shut off the water. Shut the water off. *Tip: Once you locate your shut-off or backflow preventer, take pictures and ensure that the box does not get covered in the future. Step 3: Relieve Pressure. Let the system continue to run with the water off and controller still on. This allows for the pipes to drain as much as possible creating space in the pipes for water to expand if temperatures drop low enough to freeze. Step 4: Drain the backflow preventer. One of the most expensive components in your system is your backflow device. This component is crucial for public health as well. Its purpose is to prevent irrigation water from returning back into our drinking water. Locate the 2-4 small test cocks and with a small flat head screwdriver, open these up and leave at a 45 degree angle during the “off” season. Step 5: Turn off your controller. With the water off and your system drained, you can now turn the dial on your controller to the “off” position. Leave it off until you want to use the system again in the spring. Protect your investment – winterize every year Be sure to insulate any exposed pipes or any above ground backflow preventers or other exposed components. Winterizing your irrigation system can be simple, but not every system is as straightforward as outlined in this guide. If you need help or guidance, give us a call!

If you live in Central Texas, you know winter can be unpredictable. One week it’s 75° and sunny, the next we’re covering pipes for a surprise freeze. Before you flip the switch on your irrigation system this spring, it’s critical to make sure everything is in good shape. As irrigation professional in the Central Texas area, We see the same issues every year. A little preventative inspection now can save you from high water bills, soggy lawns, and expensive repairs later. Here are the four key components you should always check before running your system for the first time after winter. Backflow Preventer (Pressure Vacuum Breaker, RPZ or Double Check) Your backflow preventer is one of the most important safety components in your irrigation system. In Central Texas, most systems use a Double Check Back Flow, Pressure Vacuum Breaker (PVB) or a Reduced Pressure Zone (RPZ) assembly. Why It Matters This device prevents contaminated irrigation water from flowing back into your home or city’s drinking water supply. It’s required by code—and for good reason. What to Check Visible cracks in the brass body (especially after a hard freeze) Loose fittings or unions Leaking shut-off valves Missing or damaged test cocks or caps Freeze damage is extremely common here, particularly if the system wasn’t fully winterized. Even a small hairline crack can become a major leak under pressure. Pro Tip: When turning water back on, open the valves slowly. Sudden pressure can damage internal components. Valve Boxes and Solenoid Valves Valve boxes tend to collect dirt, mulch, and sometimes even fire ants over the winter. Why It Matters Your irrigation valves control water flow to each zone. If a valve sticks open or fails to activate, you’ll either have dry spots—or a swamp. What to Check Remove the lid and clear out debris Look for standing water (a sign of a leak) Inspect wires for rodent damage Check that each solenoid is secure and not cracked In Central Texas clay soils and shifting ground can also stress fittings and manifolds. If you see muddy water or soil erosion inside the box, that’s usually a red flag. Sprinkler Heads and Drip Lines Sprinkler heads take the most abuse year-round—from lawn mowers, foot traffic, pets, and soil movement. Why It Matters Even one broken or misaligned head can waste hundreds of gallons of water and create uneven coverage. With Central Texas often under watering restrictions, efficiency is critical. What to Check Broken or cracked heads Heads tilted or sunk too low Clogged nozzles Mismatched spray patterns Damaged drip emitters or chewed tubing Run each zone manually and walk the property while it’s operating. Look for: Dry patches Overspray onto sidewalks or driveways Excessive misting (often a sign of high pressure) Pro Tip: Spring is also a great time to adjust spray patterns to account for new landscaping or plant growth. Controller Settings (Don’t Skip This) While not a mechanical component, your irrigation controller deserves attention too. Check the date and time Replace backup batteries if needed Adjust watering schedules for spring rainfall Make sure you’re complying with local watering restrictions In Central Texas, overwatering in early spring is one of the biggest mistakes homeowners make. Clay soils hold moisture longer than you think. Final Thoughts Before turning your irrigation system loose for the season, take 30–60 minutes to inspect: Backflow preventer Valves and wiring Sprinkler heads and drip lines A careful spring startup helps: Prevent costly leaks Improve water efficiency Protect your home’s water supply Keep your landscape healthy through our intense Texas summer If you’re unsure about anything—or if you experienced a hard freeze this winter—it’s always smart to schedule a professional irrigation checkup. Give us a call 512-930-4707 A little attention now goes a long way toward a stress-free watering season. SPRING START-UP SPECIAL $49.99 incl. up to 12 zones. Click to Learn More.

Spring is almost here, and that means it’s the perfect time for plant cutbacks and pruning in the Southwest! While it may look drastic at first, these cutbacks are essential for healthy growth, vibrant blooms, and a tidy landscape. Here’s what you need to know: Why We Do Spring Cutbacks •Encourage new growth: Cutting back old, overgrown stems allows fresh shoots to thrive. •Boost flowering and fruiting: Many plants, including roses, shrubs, and perennials, produce stronger blooms after pruning. •Control size and shape: Keep plants neat and prevent overcrowding in your landscape. •Reduce disease and pests: Removing dead or damaged branches improves airflow and reduces pest habitats. What to Expect During Service •Plants may look bare or scraggly right after trimming. Don’t worry – this is normal. •Our team will carefully prune roses, shrubs, perennials, and ornamental grasses according to each plant’s needs. •Any debris or trimmings will be removed and hauled away – leaving your yard clean. What You Can Expect After •Vibrant spring growth: New shoots will emerge within a few weeks, filling out your landscape. •Stronger, healthier plants: Pruning reduces disease risk and encourages robust structure. •Season-long beauty: With proper cutbacks, your plants will bloom fuller and longer. Pro Tips •Water and fertilize trimmed plants to support new growth. •Mulching helps retain moisture and keeps roots cool during Southwest heat. •Avoid pruning during extreme heat or drought – spring timing is key. If you’re ready to give your plants the care they need, contact us at Red & White Greenery and let our experts help your garden thrive.