Colorado Asks: Should I Fire Up My Sprinkler System Now or Wait?

With the warmer weather we've got at the moment, people around these parts are rightfully feeling some spring fever and anticipation of a beautiful summer ahead. Colorado summers are amazing and who could blame us after the winter we had, right?

The forecast for the coming weeks looks favorable for putting the colder weather behind us. And while there's always a chance for a rogue snowstorm to pop up in April or May, many are looking to get a jump start on summer life by turning on their sprinkler system and getting things looking green before the heat wave or drought conditions inevitably arrive.

So... it begs the question...

When should I turn on my sprinklers in Colorado for the first time this year?

Generally speaking, sprinkler companies and city utility companies across Colorado say wait until after the last freeze, usually somewhere around the last week of April or first week of May. Depending on how much rain we get over the next month, it may even be safe to wait until Mother's Day as a good "annual" day to turn them on.

The good news is that your grass has already survived the winter and will continue to stay asleep, so to speak, until it starts getting watered and comes alive for summer. And if you see any dry spots that need a little love, you can always get out a hose to give it a drink.

Just make sure if you do decide to start up your system you check it for leaks and routinely give it a good look over, especially if we do get another freeze.

Otherwise, get ready to fire them up soon... plus your grill and blender while you're at it!