WATER RETENTION POLYMER FOR LAWNS
Rain Maker Saves Water
Water Retention Polymers
Rain Maker is a water retention polymer designed for lawns that can absorb over 400 times its weight in water. Once absorbed, Rain Maker holds the water in a gel form until the surrounding soil dries, at which point the water is released back into the soil. This product helps maintain a higher moisture level in the soil for an extended period.
Micro Aeration
The expansion and contraction of Rain Maker during water absorption and release also aerate the soil by creating small air pockets. Other benefits of Rain Maker include promoting the long-term development of root systems, significantly reducing watering requirements, increasing the germination rate of grass seeds and rhizomes, and resulting in an overall thicker, healthier lawn.
Non-Toxic
Rain Maker is a non-toxic substance derived from a potassium polyacrylate/polyacrylamide copolymer that contains 16% potassium. The tiny white granules are specifically formulated for above-ground turf application and will penetrate the soil within 1-2 weeks after application. Once the polymers are in the soil, they will remain within the top 8-12 inches and have a lifespan of 1-2 years. Depending on soil conditions and for effective water conservation, we recommend applying Rain Maker once each year.
Aids in Recovery From Drought Stress
Additionally, Rain Maker helps prevent and aids in recovery from lawn fungus invasions, including issues such as localized dry spots, Ascochyta leaf blight, and dollar spot fungus.
Rain Maker
Lawn Watering Guidelines for When Using Rain Maker
Learn the 1-2-3-2-1 Lawn Watering Technique
The ideal way to water a lawn is via the 1-2-3-2-1 lawn watering technique. This lawn watering system was designed by Organo-Lawn and it is the best way to water both the grass and the trees. After the sprinkler zones have been set up properly it is very easy to follow the guidelines of the 1-2-3-2-1- lawn watering technique.
Rain Maker Extends Fewer Watering Days
Rain Maker will allow the lawn watering change from 1 day per week watering to 2 and 3 day per week watering by a few weeks. Then it will allow the lawn watering change from 3 days per week to 2 and 1 to occur earlier. This should save a significant amount of water of the year.
Lawn Watering Requirements without Rain Maker
Early Spring & Late Fall
(Sprinkler Turn On – Late May)
Water 1 Day Per Week
South Facing Aspects:
2/3 inch of water per week
Normal Facing Aspects:
1/2 inch of water per week
North Facing Aspects:
1/3 inch of water per week
Late Spring and Early Autumn
(Late May – Early June / Mid Sept- Late Sept)
Water 2 Days Per Week
South Facing Aspects:
1 and 1/3 inches of water per week (2/3 inches – 2 times per week)
Normal Facing Aspects:
1 inch of water per week (1/2 inches – 2 times per week)
North Facing Aspects:
2/3 inch of water per week (1/3 inches – 2 times per week)
Early Summer – Late Summer
(Mid June- Mid Sept)
Water 3 Days Per Week
South Facing Aspects:
2 inches of water per week (2/3 inches – 3 times per week)
Normal Facing Aspects:
1.5 inches of water per week (1/2 inches – 3 times per week)
North Facing Aspects:
1 inch of water per week (1/3 inches – 3 times per week)
Lawn Watering Requirements with
Rain Maker
Early Spring & Late Fall
(Sprinkler Turn On – Early June)
Water 1 Day Per Week
South Facing Aspects:
2/3 inch of water per week
Normal Facing Aspects:
1/2 inch of water per week
North Facing Aspects:
1/3 inch of water per week
Early Summer and Early Late Summer
(Early June – Late June / Early August – Early Sept)
Water 2 Days Per Week
South Facing Aspects:
1 and 1/3 inches of water per week (2/3 inches – 2 times per week)
Normal Facing Aspects:
1 inch of water per week (1/2 inches – 2 times per week)
North Facing Aspects:
2/3 inch of water per week (1/3 inches – 2 times per week)
Summer
(Late June- Early Sept)
Water 3 Days Per Week
South Facing Aspects:
2 inches of water per week (2/3 inches – 3 times per week)
Normal Facing Aspects:
1.5 inches of water per week (1/2 inches – 3 times per week)
North Facing Aspects:
1 inch of water per week (1/3 inches – 3 times per week)
Measure Your Sprinkler System's Water Output
Use a Rain Gauge
To determine how much water your sprinkler system dispenses, you can use a rain gauge or a flat, bottomed container, such as a Tupperware dish. Place the container on your lawn and run your sprinklers as you normally would for about 30 minutes. Afterward, measure the depth of the water collected in the container.
If you find that there is 1/2 inch of water in the container after 30 minutes, you should water your lawn twice a week in the spring and fall to achieve a total of 1 inch of water weekly. In the summer, you should water three times a week to obtain 1.5 inches of water weekly.
Rain Gauge
When Can Rain Maker Be Applied to a Lawn?
Ideal Time to Have Rain Maker Applied:
After an aeration is performed, typically in the spring.
Application Season for Rain Maker:
Any time of year, but typically before September. We usually apply an application of Rain Maker after a core aeration.
Schedule an Application of Rain Maker
Organo-Lawn is your local professional lawn care expert and can set up a conditioning program for your lawn. Call today to talk to one of our professional lawn care technicians. (303) 499-2000 Boulder or (970) 225-9425 Fort Collins
Water Retention Polymer FAQs
Is a Rain Maker lawn care application safe for my pets?
According to the Department of Agriculture, we cannot legally claim that any lawn care product is safe. In fact, the Department of Agriculture states that even water is not considered safe. Rain Maker, on the other hand, is regarded as non-toxic. It is made from the same material used in baby diapers for water absorption and is also utilized in water filtration systems to remove pollutants from drinking water.
How to reduce lawn watering in a Colorado lawn?
Most homeowners tend to overwater their lawns, especially during the spring and fall. The ideal moisture level in the soil is composed of 25% water, 25% air, and 50% soil. To encourage deep root growth, the 1-2-3-2-1 lawn watering technique is highly effective. Grass with deep roots becomes more resistant to drought.
If the lawn is mowed to a height of 3 inches or taller, is being watered according to the 1-2-3-2-1 technique, and has grass roots that reach at least 8 inches deep, then a lawn that has received an application of Rain Maker may not need to be watered three times per week during the hot summer months. Consequently, the lawn watering schedule might resemble the 1-2-1 technique.
Pet Friendly
An organic lawn is not only healthy but also pet-friendly! Free from harsh chemicals, organic lawns provide a safer environment for your furry friends to play, roll, and relax. Happy pets, healthy grass, and a greener planet!
Rain Maker is a clear or white polymer that resembles sea salt. When it gets wet, it transforms into a gel that looks like broken glass or jelly. After application, it seeps into the soil within one to two weeks.
No, Rain Maker is not considered organic. It is a synthetic polymer made through a chemical process, designed to absorb and retain water. While it is biodegradable and non-toxic in its intended applications, it does not meet the criteria for “organic” under agricultural or gardening standards that focus on naturally derived materials.
Why It’s Not Organic:
- Synthetic Composition: Rain Maker is chemically manufactured and not derived from natural sources like plants, animals, or minerals.
- Regulatory Standards: Organic gardening typically excludes synthetic polymers, focusing on materials that decompose naturally without human processing.
Its Role in Gardening:
Although not organic, potassium polyacrylate is often used in sustainable gardening practices because:
- It reduces water consumption by storing water in the soil for plant roots.
- It minimizes water runoff and drought stress.
For organic alternatives, materials like compost, mulch, and natural hydrogels may be considered. Let me know if you’d like suggestions for organic soil amendments!
Rain Maker is considered non-toxic and is made from the same material used in baby diapers for water absorption, as well as in water filtration systems to filter pollutants from drinking water.
If a dog eats Rain Maker (potassium polyacrylate), the situation typically depends on the amount ingested. Potassium polyacrylate is considered non-toxic, but it can still pose potential risks, especially if consumed in large quantities. Here’s what you should know:
- Potential Risks
- Swelling in the Stomach: Potassium polyacrylate is a superabsorbent polymer. It swells significantly when exposed to moisture, which could lead to gastrointestinal discomfort or blockages in severe cases.
- Mild Irritation: Some dogs may experience minor stomach upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea.
- Choking Hazard: If consumed in a granular form, it might pose a choking risk, especially for small dogs.
- Symptoms to Watch For
- Vomiting or retching.
- Diarrhea or constipation.
- Swollen or distended abdomen.
- Signs of pain or discomfort (e.g., whimpering, restlessness).
- Difficulty eating or drinking.
- What to Do if Your Dog Eats Potassium Polyacrylate
- Assess the Amount: Determine how much your dog ingested. Small amounts may pass without issue, but large amounts could require medical attention.
- Contact a Veterinarian: Call your vet or an animal poison control hotline for advice, especially if your dog shows any symptoms.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435.
- Do Not Induce Vomiting: Unless specifically directed by a veterinarian, inducing vomiting can make the situation worse.
- Provide Water: Offering small amounts of water can help the material pass through the digestive system, but avoid excessive amounts to prevent further swelling in the stomach.
While potassium polyacrylate is generally non-toxic, excessive ingestion could lead to complications depending on the circumstances. Always err on the side of caution and consult a veterinarian if you’re unsure.
Rain Maker remains effective in the soil for 1 to 2 years. During this period, it breaks down due to microbial activity or may move down to lower soil levels, becoming less effective. The polymers in Rain Maker have a “memory,” which indicates the number of times they can absorb and release water before losing their effectiveness. This memory generally lasts for 1 to 2 years. For optimal effectiveness, we recommend applying Rain Maker annually.
Rain Maker can reduce your watering needs by 25% to 40%, depending on air temperature and soil consistency.
Rain Maker decreases your watering needs by 25% to 40%, depending on air temperatures and soil conditions. In addition to saving water, Rain Maker reduces stress on the lawn, minimizes the movement of herbicides through the soil to water sources, and limits the leaching of fertilizers from the soil.
There are no legal requirements regarding staying off the lawn after application; however, if you want to be extra cautious, we recommend avoiding the lawn until the product has been thoroughly watered into the soil. It is non-toxic to the skin, but it can be slippery when wet before it has had enough time to absorb into the soil.
Rain Maker does not produce water; instead, it enhances the effectiveness of the water you apply, allowing it to go further. We still recommend watering your lawn with 1.5 inches in the spring and fall, and 2 inches in the summer. This approach can help you save about half an inch of water per week. Please note that we cannot guarantee this product will protect your lawn from drought.