5 Water-Saving Tips for a Greener Yard
Who doesn’t love the smell of fresh flowers and the feel of a healthy lawn beneath their feet? But as water becomes an increasingly scarce resource in many parts of the country, how do you keep a nice-looking lawn without wasting water or breaking the bank with your water bill?
Audit Your Existing System — Make sure your sprinkler heads are in good working order; a broken head can cost you gallons and dollars at the same time. Also, make sure you are watering the plants and not the streets — adjust sprinkler patterns accordingly. A professional audit can pay for itself over the long haul.
Water at the Right Time — Avoid watering in the hot afternoons when water can evaporate before it hits the ground. Watering at night isn’t the best option, either; it can promote mildew growth. Aim for early morning when the sun will help dry out the lawn and prevent mildew and fungus. Consult your local government for any laws or regulations that restrict watering times.
Drip Irrigation — For plants and flowers, consider installing drip irrigation. Drip irrigation will deliver the right amount of water at the base of the plant for maximum efficiency. With this kind of irrigation, almost no water is lost to evaporation or runoff.
Rain Barrels — Use what Mother Nature gives away for free. With some modifications, you can harvest rainwater from your gutters to use during dry spells.
Use Native Plants — Not all plants are created equal, and some will require more water than others. Native plants have evolved for your area and require less water than transplants. Consult a local nursery to see which plants are best for your region.
