Al Gore informed us that global warming is not only accelerating the evaporation of entire bodies of water—it is also removing water from land more quickly than ever. What can we do in—literally—our own backyards to slow this process, and even, perhaps, keep our water bills in check? Apart from planting a cactus garden, we can make simple changes that reduce the amount of water a garden needs. The amount of rainfall your region receives will dictate which changes could add up to the biggest savings. In dry regions, the types of plants gardeners choose make all the difference. In areas with more rainfall, preventing runoff and adding protective coverings are key. Sandy Forman of Anawalt Centers in Los Angeles has basic helpful suggestions for making a garden more water-efficient.
Choice of Plants
An easy way to find drought resistant plants is to look for leaves that have a dusty gray color, such as dusty miller and silvery lupine. Ask for plants that have deep roots or tuberous root systems. Tuberous roots have bulb-like sections that store water and nutrients. If you want to add a lush green look to a water-conscious garden, the asparagus fern is a great choice of plant with a tuberous root system. Shallow-rooted plants, such as grasses, depend on moist topsoil and need frequent watering; therefore, these should be avoided. Some states label water-saving plants. In California, drought resistant plants are marked with a “California Friendly Plant” tag. State-specific lists of drought resistant plants can be found here. Herbs to include in your water-smart garden include rosemary, lavender, sage, and dill.
Basic plan
Consider replacing a portion of your lawn with plants and/or shrubs. Lawns need more water per square foot than any other common planting; shrubs and trees require the least. After you have selected your plants, create a hydrozone—a group of plants with similar watering needs. Adjust your sprinklers accordingly, so as to not unnecessarily over water.
Sprinkler Savvy
If you have a traditional sprinkler system, small changes can amount to big water conservation. Set your timer to start at least one hour before sunrise for maximum water absorption. According to bewaterwise.com, simply changing sprinkler heads to eliminate watering sidewalks and paths can save an average of five hundred gallons a year. If you are starting from scratch, consider alternative systems—soil soaker hoses and drip irrigation systems are great water-saving alternatives to traditional sprinkler systems.
Hillside Help
Hillsides can be big water wasters. Terracing a garden provides more flat surface area to absorb water and eliminate runoff. Another option for a hillside garden is to create a basin around each plant to collect water. The best way to water hillsides is in short intervals, so the water has time to be absorbed by the soil.
Coverings
Bare soil loses water quickly. Mulch, a protective covering usually made of organic matter, can prevent needless evaporation. Using soil compost (decaying matter used to improve soil structure and provide nutrients) improves drainage and helps retain moisture. Peat moss retains moisture and is great for acid-loving plants. Other decorative choices include gravel and bark. According to Forman, the smaller the gravel, the less evaporation.
Using Recycled Water for Pest Control
Forman suggests spraying your plants with dishwater as an insect repellant. As long as the water doesn’t contain grease, it is a safe and eco-friendly way to keep your garden healthy and repel those pesky bugs.
For more information, log on to wateruseitwisely.com for links to water conservation organizations, as well as a listing of federal, state and regional water conservation resources. Other helpful sites include bewaterwise.com and the United States Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service (see Backyard Conservation).