Save Water By Using These Simple Water Saving Tips In The Garden.

With ever rising utility bills, watering the garden can become a costly task. By learning how to manage water efficiently, you will not only save water, but also time and money. By following some simple yet smart water saving tips, you are not only doing your bit to look after the environment, but your garden and your wallet will thank you for it!

1. Water The Garden In The Morning.

   Watering the garden in the morning before temperatures rise and while winds are lower will result in less evaporation.

2. Harvest Water.

   Collect rain water for your garden by installing a rain water tank. It is free after all.

3. Recycle Household Water.

   Cool off any cooking water that you might normally tip down the sink and then divide it among your plants. This water is not only still usable, it is full of lots of extra nutrients. Fish tank water is also fantastic for plants as it is generally rich in nitrogen and phosphorus.

4. Make Your Own Compost And Worm Farm

   Compost and worms improve the soils ability to retain moisture, resulting in a reduced need for watering and healthier plants.

5. Mulch Mulch Mulch!

   Up to 70% of moisture can evaporate from the garden bed if mulch is not used. Coarse mulch at a depth of 3-5cm in pots and 8-10cm in the garden, offers the best protection from evaporation.

6. Choose Water Saving Plants.

   Plants such as natives and succulents tend to have low water needs. Established or slow growing plants also require less water than young, fast growing plants. Opt for varieties of plants that have silver or grey foliage with small or narrow leaves. Leathery, hairy, curled or fuzzy leaves are also great water saving options.

7. Check The Weather!

   If it is due to rain, hold off on watering the garden. It’s also a great idea to turn off automatic sprinklers during the Winter months. If you are unsure of how much water your garden actually needs, place a moisture meter in your garden bed. This will help you to save water by avoiding unnecessary watering. Also remember not to use sprinklers when it is windy as this will increase the rate of evaporation before the water gets a chance to hit the ground.

8. Do Your Research.

   Talk to your local garden centre about the watering methods that best suit your plants and the local climate. From sprinkler systems and dripper systems through to self-watering pots, there are many water wise options for watering your garden that you may not have even thought of.

Being Water Wise Pays Off In More Ways Than One!

In conclusion, being smart about how and when you water your garden can not only save water, a precious resource, but can also save you time and money. By paying attention to the way your garden is watered and making a few simple water saving changes as suggested above, you can enjoy a greener garden, a healthier wallet and more time to enjoy both!