Build a healthier landscape with less waste—starting at the controller, zones, and water safety devices
A well-installed irrigation system should do three things reliably: deliver the right amount of water to the right plants, avoid runoff and overspray, and protect the public water supply with proper backflow prevention. For homeowners and property managers across Boerne and the greater San Antonio area, smart irrigation design is one of the fastest ways to improve curb appeal while staying mindful of seasonal heat, plant needs, and local water rules.
What “good” irrigation installation looks like (and why it matters in the Hill Country)
In Boerne’s mix of rocky soils, sloped lots, and intense summer demand, irrigation issues usually show up as brown patches, fungus in shaded zones, runoff onto sidewalks, or monthly bills that don’t match the results. A high-performing system is planned around hydrozones (grouping plants with similar water needs), pressure and flow realities, and equipment that helps prevent overwatering—especially as seasons shift.
The three core building blocks: water delivery, control, and protection
1) Water delivery (heads, dripline, layout)
Coverage and efficiency come from correct spacing, matched precipitation rates, and using drip or microirrigation where it makes sense (beds, shrubs, trees, and narrow strips).
2) Control (controller + scheduling)
Modern “smart” controllers can adjust watering based on weather or soil moisture, reducing unnecessary cycles. The U.S. EPA highlights weather-based and soil-moisture-based WaterSense labeled controllers as tools that help match irrigation to plant needs, rather than a fixed clock schedule. (epa.gov)
3) Protection (backflow prevention + compliance)
Backflow devices help prevent contaminated water from flowing backward into the potable supply. In our area, annual testing is commonly required (and enforced) to confirm the assembly is functioning. San Antonio Water System states backflow prevention assemblies must be tested upon installation and at least once a year thereafter by a licensed tester. (saws.org)
Step-by-step: how to plan an irrigation system installation that performs for years
Step 1: Start with the landscape plan (not the sprinkler heads)
Before trenching begins, identify turf zones, foundation beds, tree rings, sunny vs. shaded areas, and slopes. A good rule: turf is usually best on its own zones, while beds and trees often do better with drip/microirrigation.
Step 2: Hydrozones—group plants by water needs
Mixing high-water turf with drought-tolerant beds on one zone forces a compromise that never looks right. If you’re building around Texas-friendly planting, browse ideas on our Texas natives resource page for low-maintenance, drought-tolerant options that pair well with drip zones.
Step 3: Confirm water pressure and flow (and design within it)
Pressure that’s too high can cause misting and uneven application; pressure that’s too low can cause weak coverage. Proper pressure regulation and matched nozzles help make coverage predictable.
Step 4: Choose the right irrigation method for each area
Step 5: Install a smart controller and plan seasonal adjustments
The EPA notes that WaterSense labeled controllers (weather-based or soil moisture-based) can reduce waste by adjusting watering to conditions. The key is correct programming and ongoing adjustments as temperatures and rainfall change. (epa.gov)
Step 6: Don’t skip backflow protection and testing
Backflow prevention is about safety—not aesthetics—and it’s not “set it and forget it.” SAWS states assemblies must be tested at installation and at least annually by a licensed tester. The City of Boerne also maintains a Cross Connection Control and Backflow Prevention Program and notes administrative requirements for testers working within the city. (saws.org)
If you need installation support or troubleshooting, visit: Irrigation installation & repair services | Backflow prevention services
Quick “Did you know?” irrigation facts
Smart controllers can cut waste
EPA WaterSense notes WaterSense labeled controllers adjust schedules using weather or soil moisture data, helping reduce irrigation that occurs when plants don’t need it. (epa.gov)
Monthly visual checks prevent expensive repairs
EPA guidance recommends inspecting irrigation systems regularly for leaks, broken heads, and misdirected spray—small issues that add up fast. (epa.gov)
Backflow assemblies typically require annual testing
SAWS states assemblies must be tested upon installation and at least once a year thereafter by a licensed tester. (saws.org)
Common installation mistakes we fix (and how to avoid them)
Overspray onto driveways and sidewalks
Often caused by incorrect head placement/nozzle choice. Besides waste, it can create slippery surfaces and staining on hardscape.
One zone tries to water everything
If turf, shrubs, and sun/shade are all on one valve, the “best” schedule is always wrong for someone. Separate zones are the fix.
Beds watered like turf
Sprays in beds increase leaf wetness, weeds, and runoff. Dripline is typically a better long-term approach for beds and trees.
No seasonal adjustments
Even a perfectly installed system can waste water if it’s never re-tuned. EPA notes irrigation schedules should be adjusted based on seasonal changes. (epa.gov)
Boerne & San Antonio area notes: water safety, paperwork, and planning ahead
Backflow programs are real—and enforced. In the City of Boerne, the Utilities Department operates a Cross Connection Control and Backflow Prevention Program and outlines tester registration and report submission requirements. If you’re in San Antonio, SAWS documents annual testing expectations and program oversight. (ci.boerne.tx.us)
New installs are the best time to “future-proof.” When you install irrigation alongside landscape upgrades—like new sod, beds, or hardscaping—you can zone correctly from the start and avoid patchwork fixes later. If you’re planning a full outdoor refresh, you may also want to explore:
Ready for irrigation that’s efficient, reliable, and built for Boerne conditions?
Blades of Glory Landscaping helps homeowners and property managers install and improve irrigation systems with thoughtful zoning, clean installation, and practical recommendations that fit your landscape—not a one-size-fits-all template.
FAQ: Irrigation system installation in Boerne, TX
Should I install drip irrigation or sprinklers?
Many properties do best with both: sprinklers for turf and drip/microirrigation for beds, shrubs, and trees. This reduces overspray and helps match watering to plant needs.
How often should my backflow preventer be tested?
SAWS states backflow prevention assemblies must be tested upon installation and at least once a year thereafter by a licensed tester. Local requirements can vary by jurisdiction and property type, so it’s smart to confirm for your address. (saws.org)
Do smart irrigation controllers actually save water?
They can—when installed and programmed correctly. EPA WaterSense guidance highlights weather-based and soil moisture-based controllers as a way to reduce irrigation when plants don’t need it. (epa.gov)
What’s the biggest reason new systems fail early?
Poor zoning and skipped maintenance. Even good equipment struggles if turf and beds share a valve, or if broken heads and leaks go unnoticed for months.
Can you help me estimate materials for the landscape around my irrigation project?
Yes. If you’re refreshing beds or adding pathways at the same time, these tools can help with planning:
Glossary (helpful terms for irrigation planning)
Backflow prevention assembly
A plumbing device installed to help prevent contaminated water from flowing backward into the clean water supply.
Hydrozone
A group of plants (or an area) that share similar water needs and should be irrigated on the same schedule.
Microirrigation
Low-volume irrigation (like dripline or emitters) that applies water slowly and close to the root zone—commonly used for beds, shrubs, and trees. (epa.gov)
Weather-based (smart) controller
An irrigation controller that adjusts watering based on weather and landscape conditions, rather than a fixed timer. (epa.gov)
