Simple ways to save water, and use it wisely.
- Reduce or remove grass and replace it with water-wise
landscaping that uses up to 50 percent less water! If you
require a functional play area, consider a more drought tolerant
variety of grass such as St. Augustine or Hybrid Bermuda, or a
ground cover such as Phyla Nodiflora (also known as Lippia).
- Check your irrigation system frequently, and adjust
sprinklers for overspray and runoff.
- Minimize evaporation by watering between 9:00 p.m. and 6:00
a.m.
- Use a layer of organic mulch around plants to reduce
evaporation and save hundreds of gallons of water a year.
- Divide your watering cycle into shorter periods to eliminate
runoff.
- Direct rain gutter spouts and other runoff towards shrubs and
trees, or collect and use the water for your garden.
- Use drip irrigation for shrubs and trees to apply water
directly to the roots, where it’s needed.
- Install a rain shut-off device on your automatic sprinklers
to eliminate unnecessary watering.
- Use a broom instead of a hose to clean your driveway or
sidewalk.
- Don’t water on windy days. After all, sidewalks and driveways
don’t need water.
- Water your plants deeply but less frequently to create
healthier and stronger landscapes.
- Fertilizers increase water consumption. Apply the minimum
amount of fertilizer needed.
- Remember to weed your lawn and garden regularly. Weeds
compete with other plants for nutrients, light and
water.
- Use a screwdriver as a soil probe to test soil moisture. If
the soil is moist, you probably do not need to water.
