Conserving A Natural Resource
A low-water garden is ideal for busy people and regions that receive little rainfall. It’s also an excellent idea for conserving one of our most precious natural resources - water. Low-water gardening is a simple concept that is easy to implement in any climate or size garden. Use these tips to help you get started on your journey to growing healthy foods and flowers while reducing the amount of water you use in the process.
Use Drought-Tolerant Plants
Drought-tolerant plants will require less water and are better able to withstand hot summer temperatures. Lavender, coneflower, sage, rose campion, sedum, crepe myrtle, lantana, and all succulents are just a few drought-tolerant plants that are great for planting in a low-water garden.
Group Plants Together
Group garden plants as close together as possible and place containers of flowers and vegetables close to each other so less water will be used, and humidity will be increased. Air circulation is still essential for healthy plants, but by planting them close together, less water will be wasted at watering time. Stacking plants will also help reduce water usage, such as placing a container plant under a hanging basket so the water from the top plants will fall down to the plants below.
Artificial Turf
Thirsty lawns can be replaced with artificial turf to reduce the amount of water used in the landscape significantly. This will also eliminate the need for mowing and help reduce air pollution and fossil fuel usage. Consider using artificial turf in the play area, around the pool, or for garden paths if you don’t want to eliminate your lawn totally.
Hardscape
Hardscaping is another low-water idea that uses non-living things for outdoor beauty instead of plants that needs to be watered regularly. Concrete patios, wooden or composite decks, stone walkways, tree bark mulch, etc., are examples of hardscape ideas that functional, beautiful, and reduce the amount of water used in the garden and landscape.
Rain Barrel
Use a rain barrel to capture water that runs off the house roof so it can be recycled in the garden. Rainwater is better for plants, is no cost, and a great way to reduce the amount of tap water needed for the lawn and garden. Place a barrel under the downspout of your home’s gutter system and collect and store the water until you need it to water garden plants. A 55-gallon barrel of rainwater will water a lot of plants and keep them thriving during the growing season.
Low-Water Garden Design
A low-water garden can be functional, beautiful, and increase the value of your home. Enjoying your outdoor space while conserving water can be achieved by using a mixture of drought-tolerant plants, hardscape, and smart planting groupings. And don’t forget to add the rain barrel so you can water garden plants for free.
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Photos vie Unsplash by: Annie Spratt, Markus Spiske, Daniela Araya
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