How to Save Water in Your Landscape This Summer

July 15, 2015 | By webadmin

When it comes to saving water in the landscape, there are several different strategies you’ll need to employ.  Here are some of our favorite time-tested techniques to saving this summer:

The types of plants in your landscape significantly impact how you’ll have to water. Choosing the right plants for your landscape makes all the difference when it comes to both looks and ease of care. When it comes to saving water, planting the right plant in the right place is a must. Combining plants with similar water needs is also key to creating a landscape that works on all fronts.

If you’re finding your landscape is a bit too thirsty, consider replacing high-maintenance plants with those that have low-water needs once established. Texas Sage, Gray Leaf Cotoneaster, Turk’s Cap and ornamental grasses are just a few of the plants we love in the waterwise landscape.

Texas Sage ‘Rio Bravo’ uses very little water and blooms through summer!

Hydrozone your landscape to use water most efficiently. When we choose plants for the landscape, we always place plants that have similar water needs together in a planting. Planting high-water needs plants near drought tolerant plants only creates watering challenges and waste. Lawns also have very different water needs than shrubs or trees. So not only should you plan your plantings with water use in mind, you irrigation system should also be zoned accordingly. Tips on how to hydrozone your landscape here.

Use the Cycle and Soak method. The cycle and soak method can help your plants get the water they need without you wasting any to runoff. The cycle and soak method involves running your sprinkler system for a short period of time, then shutting it off to allow the water soak in thoroughly. Later, you’ll run the system again until you reach the recommendation duration. Once the water actually permeates the soil surface, water will saturate more efficiently and deeply during a second or third watering cycle. This is especially helpful if you have a sloped landscape or compacted soils. Details on how to use the “cycle and soak” method here.

Of course, a good watering plan is only as good as your irrigation system. If your system is outdated or needs repair, then its bound to waste water no matter what you do. If you haven’t had your irrigation system checked this year, now is a good time to do so. Have a certified irrigation specialist audit your system to identify leaks, pressure problems, bad coverage and tips to help you water smart while you save.