It’s been such beautiful weather of late but there’s also been a bit of a reminder of the summer heat to come with a few days nudging the 30-degree Celsius mark. The question that might arise from this gentle nudge is how prepared is your garden for the summer ahead? A waterwise garden is not at all difficult to establish and once put in place will mean less water is lost and good overall soil health is maintained. The end result is a healthy, waterwise garden that helps lower utility bills whilst being environmentally friendly and still, above all, looking vibrant and healthy.
Plants that reduce water consumption
A waterwise garden can include practices and plant choices that significantly reduce water consumption. By choosing the right plants to suit your climate conditions, you’ll find an instant reduction in watering needs once established. Species such as the Coastal Rosemary Westringia fruticosa and other native species like grevillea, banksia, and bottlebrush, as well as hardy options like agapanthus, lavender and salvias, all grow well in dry conditions. Succulents are a great choice, too, because they store water in their thick, fleshy leaves and are incredibly low-maintenance to boot. Grouping plants together that have similar needs is also a good idea, as they’ll all get the right amount of water.
Mulching reduces water evaporation by up to 70%
Whatever your plant choices happen to be, it’s crucial you mulch around them. Mulching can help reduce evaporation by up to 70% and protect your soil from drying out. Usually, a 50-100mm layer is recommended, topped up each year or applied as and when it’s needed. This means in the long run you’ll need to water less frequently, any rain that falls is absorbed and stored happily beneath it and it is a great way to suppress weeds and improve overall soil structure. What’s not to love about that!
Water during early morning or late afternoon
Watering the garden is rather obviously one of the most water-heavy activities in the garden, but consider the time of day you do water and try limiting it to early morning or late afternoon once it cools down. Less frequent, deeper watering will also assist plants in sending their roots deeper into the soil, making them better equipped to withstand hot, dry days.
Consider a drip irrigation system with a rain sensor
Installing an efficient drip irrigation system with a rain sensor is perhaps the most efficient watering system you can have. Water is directed to the root areas of your plants where they need it, rather than on the leaves or surface, where most of it can be lost to evaporation. These systems can be fairly cheap to install and are highly customisable to suit your garden layout and plant choices.
Final tips for saving water and cutting down on your water bills!
Other tips for a waterwise garden include planning a water-efficient garden from the outset, improving your soil so that it holds more moisture for longer and retains nutrients, and perhaps consider using a rainwater tank or a greywater system if you want to win the award for best waterwise garden. No prizes of course, just a lush, healthy garden that uses minimal water and gives you a good sense of satisfaction and pride.
