Wise use of water for garden and lawn waterings not only helps protect the environment, but saves money and provides for optimum growing conditions. Simple ways of reducing the amount of water used for irrigation include:
1. Plant Selection: Growing xeriphytic species (i.e. plants that are adapted to dry conditions) can reduce the amount of watering requied in
2. Mulching: Adding layers of plant material (such bark or straw) to keep the sun off the soil and therefore retain water.
3. Water Retention: Adding water retaining organic matter to the soil,
4. Reduce Airflow: Installing windbreaks and fences to slow winds and reduce evapotranspiration.
5. Watering Time: The best time of the day to water is close to sunrise or close on sunset in order to minimize levels of water evaporation
6. Guttering: Installing rain gutters and collecting water from downspouts also helps reduce water use.
7. Recycling Household Water: By putting a bucket in the shower or running a hose from your washing machine outlet to the garden can help recycle water to your garden.
8. Be Sprinkler Smart: Set up your sprinkler or hose to avoid watering hard surfaces such as driveways and patios. If you're not careful, it's water and money down the drain.
