Water conservation is exceptionally important. Eliminating unnecessary water usage is integral to fighting the environmental crisis currently gripping the planet. Many of us have changed the way we use water within the home, but the same can’t be as readily said about outside the home – in particular, our gardens. There is a misconception that reducing the amount of water you use in your garden will cripple its health, but that isn’t true. However, you don’t have to do this at the expense of your garden. You can conserve water and still maintain a well-cared-for garden.
There are a number of water-saving methods you can adopt: collecting rainwater, mulching, and planting drought-resistant plants. Saving water in the garden isn’t just crucial for environmental reasons. If you have a water meter installed in your home, you have a financial incentive to cut back on the amount of water you use too.
Therefore, it is in your best interests – as well as the environment’s – to reduce the amount of water you use. Below are some tips you can use to cut down without sacrificing the appearance of your garden.
Only water at the right time
Simply having a better understanding of when your garden is likely to need water can help you develop more efficient water practices. If you unnecessarily water your plants, you will have wasted a precious commodity for no discernible benefit. The moisture in the first inch of soil is a reliable indicator of whether or not more water is needed. However, note that if your garden has clay soil, it can feel damp regardless of whether it has been watered. Sandy soil might feel dry even after watering it. If that is the case, then you should direct your attention towards the plants. If the leaves darken, that can be a sign of water stress, and it is time to water your plants. Also, remember to check how the soil looks and feels. Having an awareness of the most important indicators should help you to make a more informed decision about watering.
Water the right amount
The amount of water to include in your garden has a lot to do with the type of soil in your garden. Different soils require different amounts of water. Heavy soils require only a small amount of water compared to light sandy soils. For clay-based soils, the best option is to water less frequently, but the few times you do, more generously. The Royal Horticultural Society recommends that you water up to 24 litres per sq. meter every seven to ten days.
Take a closer look at your soil
Taking the time to improve your soil’s ability to retain water can dramatically reduce the amount of water you need to use. Mulching flower beds is a fantastic way to prevent moisture loss, especially during drier seasons. Remember to use water-retentive granules while composting. Another way to retain moisture in hanging baskets and containers is by adding water-retentive granules or gel.
Prioritise plants that need less water
One of the most straightforward ways to reduce the amount of water you use in your garden is to simply select plants that don’t need much water to thrive. For example, plants such as agave, wallflower, lithops, palms, mimosa, verbena, and lavender require small amounts of water to grow. Another increasingly attractive option for water-conscious gardeners is artificial grass. It offers a natural-looking alternative to seeded lawns. Does it sound like the right choice for you? If yes, do not hesitate to contact artificial grass fitters Lawrence Lawns for a great deal.
