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Limited time offer!
Only landscape projects started after September 21, 2009 are eligible for rebates.
Program ends when all available rebates have been awarded,
or Dec. 31, 2009, whichever comes first.
It’s no secret this year’s drought has taken a toll on once-lush-green lawns. Although many varieties of turf will recover from plentiful rain, any remaining dead brown spots present the perfect opportunity to convert your landscape from mostly turf to a combination of beds and hardscape.
Why beds?
- Native and drought tolerant plants use 50 percent less water than grass
- Beds can be watered with a drip irrigation system, which uses less water and has fewer restrictions during drought
- Plants in beds can be planned so there is color year-round
- Most blooming plants attract butterflies and hummingbirds
- Beds filled with WaterSaver plants require less ongoing care
- Converting at least 50 percent of your turf to more mulched beds is one step toward qualifying for the WaterSaver Landscape rebate
To qualify for a New Beds and Mulch rebate, you must:
- Be a SAWS water customer (sewer-only customers not eligible)
- Complete the Drought Recovery Toolkit New Beds and Mulch rebate application
- Attach before and after photos of the converted landscape. Photos must clearly show conversion of turf areas to mulched beds.
- Purchase a minimum of three (3) cubic yards of mulch
- Only landscape projects started after September 21, 2009 are eligible for rebates
- Submit original dated receipts for mulch (copies not accepted)
How much is the rebate?
The rebate is $50 in the form of a credit on your water bill.
Can I get a rebate for adding mulch to an existing bed?
No. Adding mulch to an existing bed is very desirable. However, this rebate is for removing turf and replacing it with new mulched beds that require less water.
Why do I have to include photos?
The before and after photos you submit document that you are replacing an area that was turf with new mulched beds. Site visits may also be made to verify the work performed.
Is there a maximum amount?
The maximum rebate you can get from this program is $50 for 3 cubic yards. Of course, you may purchase more to meet your needs.
Can I get more than one rebate?
This is a limited time rebate offer. To allow for as many people as possible to participate, the rebate is limited to one per customer.
How do I get my rebate?
Complete the application form and return it with your original receipts after all work has been completed to:
San Antonio Water System
ATTN: Conservation Mulch Rebate
P.O. Box 2449
San Antonio, Texas 78298-2449
When will I get my rebate?
Once the documentation has been processed, you will receive a credit on your water bill. Typically, this is done within two billing cycles.
How long will the rebate program last?
The program is limited. It will run until December 31, 2009 or until the rebate budget runs out. If your date of purchase receipt is on or before the date the program closes (as posted on SAWS Web site), your application will be processed.
What if I want to keep my original receipts?
You may include a self-addressed stamped envelope with your application and SAWS will mail your receipts back to you. You may also bring your receipts to the Conservation Department at SAWS, 2800 U.S. Hwy 281 North. Conservation staff will make a copy and return the original to you.
Should I plant in my new mulched bed right away?
That’s probably not a good idea. As tempting as it may be to fill the new bed with purchased plants, this is not the best strategy. Plan carefully what will be in your bedding areas. Picture what those plants will look like during all seasons. Will you be satisfied with everything frozen after the first freeze? If not, include some evergreen plants as well. Another factor to consider are water needs for new plants. If drought conditions are in place, it’s best to wait before installing plants that require extra care to get established.
What is mulch?
Mulch may be organic, like woodchips or pine bark, or it may be inorganic like decomposed granite. Organic mulch can be square, rectangular, shredded, or chunk shapes. Inorganic mulch, such as decomposed granite, is used when drought-tolerant plants like herbs and succulents require well-drained soils.
How does mulch work?
It reduces soil temperature, moisture loss, and grass competition. Organic mulches boost soil organic matter, which increases water-holding capacity and water infiltration. Mulch also creates an attractive backdrop for plants.
Should I use weed barrier under the mulch?
There are many opinions on how to prepare an area for a planting bed. Some people use weed barrier fabric under the mulch, but this can get messy as it breaks up during planting. Also, the barrier fabric tends to prevent water from reaching the roots of new plants. One alternative is to place several layers of water-soaked newspaper down before piling on mulch. Newspaper decomposes gradually, helping discourage weeds from sprouting up through the mulch.
What if grass is growing where I want my new bed?
There are several options to eliminate the grass. Digging it out is labor intensive and probably won’t eliminate all roots and sprigs that can grow back. Instead, smother the grass by laying black plastic or layers of newspaper over it for a few weeks. Also, glycophosphate weed killer products can be used as directed on actively growing, green grass. Be aware that if this product drifts or blows onto other plants, it will cause damage.
How much mulch do I use?
A single application to a depth of 2 inches is sufficient to get started. Mulch should be replenished as it gradually decomposes over the years. Mulch generally is sold in cubic feet or cubic yards. One cubic yard will cover about 162 square feet with 2 inches of mulch.
How much does mulch cost?
While prices vary, one cubic yard of mulch typically costs about $35. There are additional fees for delivery.
Can I purchase and spread the mulch myself?
Yes, you can certainly do it yourself. Keep a clean, legible record of your purchases.
Where is mulch available?
San Antonio has many fine mulch providers in our area. Consult the telephone book or your landscape professional.
How much mulch must I purchase?
You must buy a minimum of 3 cubic yards of mulch to qualify for the rebate. This will cover about 500 square feet of landscape with the recommended 2 inches of mulch. You can purchase it in bulk or in bags, which usually contain 2 cubic feet of mulch per bag. If you opt for bags, you’ll need to purchase 40 bags to meet the 3-cubic-yard requirement.
Does my irrigation system need to be changed with the new beds?
Yes! If your new beds cover an area which is now combined beds and turf, you will want to make changes. And, it gets you closer to obtaining a WaterSaver Landscape rebate. The simplest change is to cap the sprinkler heads within the new bedding area. It’s best to hand water any new plants to get them established. Later, soaker hoses are an easy way to supplement irrigation during dry times.
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