Multiple schedules per zone

post by esl810 on Jun 28, 2017

I just installed a Rachio and am trying to determine the best schedule type for my yard. While investigating the options, I read that I can create multiple schedules per zone. What is the reason/advantage for having multiple schedules for a zone?

Thanks!

post by comsciguy on Jun 28, 2017

You can do a short watering cycle (say 5 minutes) to “pre-soak” the turf followed by 10-15 minutes to allow that water to be absorbed. Then do your normal longer watering time (say 20 minutes) to allow that water to get a deeper penetration and absorption to the roots. Dry soil has a harder time absorbing water and the “pre-soak” should moisten the soil enough to enable better water absorption for the longer cycle.

This is what the Rachio flex-schedule will do; however, if you are like me, I’m more comfortable with doing a fixed-schedule with two waterings for now. I’ll experiment more with the flex-schedule a little later in the season after I do some more research and experimentation.

post by mckynzee on Jun 28, 2017

I would say that we allow this for special situations (ie new sod) but it is absolutely not necessary! @comsciguy mentioned having a little presoak, which there is definitely benefit to, but you can also try our “Smart Cycle” feature to accomplish this as well!

post by esl810 on Jun 29, 2017

Thanks to you both!