How much water do you typically use in your garden?
Regardless of species or variety, all plants require water. Water allows plants to absorb nutrients from the soil while also assisting in the conversion of sunlight to energy – a process known as photosynthesis.
If your garden is responsible for sky-high water bills, though, you should consider taking a proactive approach towards minimizing the amount of water it uses.
Here are 5 ways to do just that.
#1) Water During the Evening
Watering your garden during the evening – or even at night – can prove beneficial.
If you water your garden during the morning or midday, sunlight will cause a substantial amount of it to evaporate. Some of the water will still soak into the soil, but much of it will evaporate into the air.
Watering your garden during the evening, on the other hand, minimizes evaporation so that more water will soak into the soil.
#2) Choose Drought-Tolerant Plants
While it’s true that all plants require water, some need water less than others.
A few popular garden plants that require a minimal amount of water include blackfoot daisy, chocolate daisy, evergreen sumac and tripsacum.
By choosing drought-tolerant plants such as these, you won’t have to use as much water in your garden.
#3) Build a Drainage System
Another way to conserve water in your garden is to build a drainage system.
If water collects in a specific area of your landscape, perhaps you can use a French drain to guide the water to your garden.
Of course, you should use caution to ensure that water doesn’t remain stagnant in your garden.
Otherwise, it may create waterlogged soil that’s mushy and even harmful to your plants.
#4) Add Mulch
A little mulch can go a long way in conserving water in your garden.
When adding mulch to the topsoil, it will “hold” some of the water. It’s highly absorbent, so when it rains, some of the water will soak into the mulch rather than evaporating into the air.
You don’t have to use a lot of mulch, just a small 2-inch layer should suffice.
#5) Install a Drip Irrigation System
A drip irrigation system can help you conserve water in your garden.
Drip irrigation systems work by slowly releasing water into the soil. As a result, they don’t suffer from evaporation problems associated with traditional irrigation and watering systems.
In fact, research shows that drip irrigation systems use about 30% to 50% less water, making them ideal for gardens and landscapes.
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If we can help with any of your tree care needs give us a call at 512-846-2535 or 512-940-0799 or
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