When should you turn on your sprinklers in southern Colorado?

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) - ​You have heard people here in Colorado say not to plant anything outdoors and not to turn on your sprinklers until after Mother's Day.  But this year, the mild and dry weather has homeowners actively watering their lawns.

That has people asking the question, how soon is too soon to turn those sprinklers on?  

It's always the big debate this time of year, when to get your sprinklers going.  And it all has to do with the weather.

The biggest variables are freezing temperatures and the season's last frost. Typically, May 8 is the average last frost for Colorado Springs, which is right around Mother's Day. 

This year, our unseasonably warm weather has people anxious to get their lawns green.

One Colorado Springs landscaper says it's always a gamble when it comes to Colorado's weather and the Mother's Day guideline. 

"That would typically be a safe date, but it sure has been so much milder," said Keith Bellingham, owner of The Lawnsmith.  " We are in good shape going forward from what we can see, the possibility always exists for freezing weather to come, and if it does, then we could be prepared to turn off the systems and drain the back flow," added Bellingham

Most landscapers KRDO13 spoke with say you can turn on your sprinklers now, but be aware of the upcoming cold weather. 

A simple thing, such as covering your back-flow with a blanket or plastic bag, will likely protect it from damage.  

If you are one of those who will be turning on our sprinklers, it's advisable to follow the Water Wise watering rules. Water three days a week, before 10 a.m. and after 6 p.m.

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