Our gardens and lawns get especially thirsty in the heat of the summer. Quenching that thirst can take a lot of water which can be costly for the environment and your wallet. So, whether you want to adopt more Eco-friendly habits or simply reduce your water bill, conserving water in your garden can make a difference.
Experts have stated that the world is experiencing an extensive drought. In fact, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration states that parts of the West Coast and the Southwest of America have been experiencing exceptional drought conditions. This is problematic as, according to NASA research, Americans use 238 gallons of water per person, per day on their lawns. This adds up quickly, especially if your area is a drought-risk. The U.S. EPA notes that lawn and garden watering make up nearly 40 percent of a household’s total water use in the summer.
Here are some creative ideas on conserving water in your garden:
- It’s all about timing. Watering your lawn and plants in the morning, before the sun is out, ensures that they soak up as much water as possible. And you don’t have to worry about the sun evaporating the water.
- Mulch and compost. Another eco-friendly way to save water is to give your plants a healthy dose of mulch and compost. The compost adds moisture while the mulch helps “lock” it in. A combination of the two will keep your plants looking healthy on less water. Cypress mulch retains water very well. Another tip is creating a “moat” around your plants. Using soil or mulch, you can create water pockets to trap water around each plant.
- Rethink your watering system. Sprinklers are often considered a standard in lawn care, but is it doing you any favors? Experts say that water dispersed through sprinklers and hoses “evaporates before it ever reaches its intended source- thirsty roots”. To truly save water, consider investing in a drip irrigation system or a soaker hose.
- Collect water from within your home. Good recycling habits start within the home. For instance, rethink pouring your cooking water down the drain. After boiling vegetables and pasta the water will be filled with nutrients that your plants would appreciate. Just remember to let the water cool first. Also consider putting a bucket underneath the spout in the shower as you wait for the water to heat up.
- Rain barrels. Lastly, placing a rain barrel underneath your drainpipe helps conserving water of the rooftop runoff can definitely help you save water. The U.S. EPA says that most homeowners save 1,300 gallons of water during the summer months alone.