Water is a precious resource, and it's important to conserve it in the garden. There are many ways to save water in the garden, from using drip irrigation to collecting rainwater from your roof. Clay soils need less frequent watering than light sandy soils, and using water-retaining crystals or gels can help reduce the amount of water needed. Covering terracotta pots with polyethylene and covering the soil around plants with straw or bark can also help reduce evaporation.
Collecting rainwater from your roof and using gray water from your bathtubs, showers, and sinks are also great ways to save water. A moisture meter is a useful tool for monitoring soil moisture levels, and planting in sunken garden beds or natural depressions can help take advantage of water flow. Conserving water in the garden is essential for sustainable gardening. Here are 10 proven tips to help you save water and manage it efficiently:1.
Drip irrigation
: Drip irrigation is one of the most efficient ways to water plants.
It delivers water directly to the roots of the plants, reducing evaporation and runoff.2.
Water-retaining crystals or gels
: These products can help retain moisture in containers so you don't have to water them as often.3.
Cover terracotta pots with polyethylene
: This will reduce evaporation from the sides of the pot.4.
Cover the soil around plants with straw or bark
: This will prevent water from evaporating from the soil surface and also scare away slugs and prevent weeds from growing.5.
Collect rainwater from your roof
: You can collect up to 24,000 liters (5,280 gallons) of rainwater from your roof every year.6.
Use gray water from your bathtubs, showers, and sinks
: Gray water contains minimal amounts of soap and detergent.7.
Use a moisture meter
: A moisture meter is one of the most useful tools you can use in your garden to help reduce water waste where it isn't needed.8.
Water before drought begins
: Watering the garden before the drought begins keeps soil moisture levels high and helps prevent water deficits.9.
Rotate use of phosphates
: Phosphates can accumulate in this type of water, so it is advisable to use them sparingly and rotate them around the garden to prevent salts from accumulating and damaging plants or soil microbes.10.
Shred flowerbeds and borders
: See our video guide on how to shred flowerbeds and borders.
