In this guide, we'll explore some effective techniques to help you save money on watering while maintaining a beautiful garden.
One of the first steps to saving money on watering your garden is understanding how much it's currently costing you.
Attaching a water meter to your outdoor spigot or hose can help you track your water usage.
To calculate your lawn watering costs, determine the total area of your lawn and how many inches of water it needs.
Tips for Reducing Water Usage
- Mulch to Retain Moisture
Mulching your garden can help retain soil moisture, reduce evaporation, and protect plant roots from extreme temperatures.
Add Plenty of Compost
- Compost enriches the soil with nutrients, reduces soil crusting, and helps water move more readily through the soil.
Know When to Water
- Watering in the morning is ideal, as it allows the leaves to dry off before evening and prevents fungal and bacterial problems.
Choose an Irrigation System
Micro-irrigation systems like drip irrigation are efficient ways to water your garden. They deliver water directly to the roots, reducing water consumption
Water Deeper, but Less Frequently
Deep-watering encourages root systems to grow deep, where soil tends to dry out more slowly.
Choose Drought-Tolerant Plants
Selecting plants that are native to your area or labeled as "low water use" or "drought-tolerant" can significantly reduce your water consumption.
Harvest Rainwater
Installing a rainwater collection system can provide you with a free and clean source of water for your garden.