Certified Landscape Irrigation Auditor

What can be used in more established landscapes to determine irrigated area?

1. Soil type

2. Tree canopy

3. Plant spacing

4. Watering schedule

The correct answer is: Tree canopy

Using the tree canopy to determine irrigated area in more established landscapes is effective because the canopy provides a clear visual representation of the space occupied by the vegetation. The spread of the tree canopy can indicate the approximate area that is receiving irrigation, as trees typically are planted with sufficient distance to allow their canopies to grow without competition for sunlight and resources. In a landscape, established trees often represent significant water demand, and the extent of the canopy will help inform the auditor about which areas are likely being watered and the potential overlap with other plant types in the landscape. This approach allows for a practical assessment of how well the irrigation system is covering the needs of significant plants in the area. The other options have their merits but are less effective in gauging irrigated areas in established landscapes. Soil type provides insight into water infiltration and retention but does not indicate the extent of the irrigated area directly. Plant spacing can suggest density and potential competition but doesn't offer a clear visual of the affected area. A watering schedule can inform how often areas are being irrigated but does not provide a spatial reference for the irrigated zones.