Water-saving tips for your garden
It is possible to conserve water while having a beautiful, thriving garden. Here’s how.
Check your soil
Does your garden really need watering now? To check your soil’s moisture simple stick your finger into the soil near your plants. The top couple of inches of soil should be dry but the soil below that needs to be moist.
Water at the right time
It’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast to see what Mother Nature has in-store before giving the garden a good soak, but in warm weather you should always water in the morning. This gives plants time to absorb the water before the hot afternoon sun or winds evaporate the water. If it’s not possible to water the plants in the morning aim for the late afternoon. But don’t water in the evening as plants need to have time to dry before sunset so foliage doesn’t develop fungal diseases.
Deep watering is best
Established plants need watering to reach down to the roots, but you need to careful to not overwater either! Soil should be damp but not waterlogged down to 30 centimetres below the surface. If leaves turn brown at the edges, it may be as a result of overwatering.
Mulch is a must
It’s amazing what a layer of fresh mulch can do for your garden beds. Not only will it help soil retain moisture but it can also help reduce weed and disease problems.
Choose the right plants
Local native plants and other water-wise plants not only require less maintenance and watering, but are much more likely to thrive in your garden, as well as attract local wildlife.
Related links:
Tips for a cottage-style garden
Common gardening mistakes you can avoid