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SAVING WATER
/ GARDENING
source: http://www.yourhomeplanet.com/
ecolodgical/index_design
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Water-efficient landscaping is one of the best ways to enhance the beauty of our surroundings and preserve our most precious natural resource: water…- back in 1981, an environmental planner for the Denver Water Department coined the word ‘Xeriscape’ to embody the principles of water conservation through creative landscaping. Xeriscaping is derived from the Greek word ‘xeros’, meaning ‘dry’ and combined with ‘landscape’. Xeriscape means gardening with less than average water. Briefly, here are the basic principles of water wise landscaping…
- water-wise landscaping techniques are actually quite simple, but can translate into substantial savings during summer months, when water consumption increases by at least 40%. The number of ways to create beautiful, water-wise landscapes are limited only by the imagination;
- a good design will produce the highest quality landscape at the least possible cost with limited maintenance and water requirements. Begin with a base map, taking advantage of the natural climate conditions in your yard by grouping plants with similar water needs. Note areas in your yard that are hot, dry, shady, or damp. Check the watering requirements of your plants. This will help you to place the right plant in the right place;
- avoid using harsh chemicals in the garden (which can cause serious harm to neighbouring gardens and waterways through rain water runoff) by implementing organic gardening and companion planting techniques;
- create practical turf areas: limit the size of lawn areas and use native grasses as much as possible. Lawns are the thirstiest parts of the garden;
- use appropriate plants: use xeric plants for hot, dry south and west facing areas. Use plants that like more moisture along north and east facing slopes and walls. Don't mix plants with high and low watering needs in the same planting area;
- improve the soil: add organic matter in the form of compost whenever you plant. This helps the soil hold extra moisture;
- use mulches: by covering the soil's surface with some type of mulch, you help retain valuable soil moisture. Mulching also helps capture rainwater by allowing hard rains to soak into the soil instead of running off into the street and drainage areas.
- irrigate efficiently: don't over-water. Use soaker hoses and drip irrigation to water deeply and encourage deep root growth. A water efficient landscape requires a minimal amount of supplemental water from irrigation. When irrigation is used, water should be applied efficiently and effectively to make every drop count. Wasted water costs money and may lead to surface water or groundwater contamination;
- capture rain and snow run off: use rain barrels and cisterns to capture water draining off roofs. Run-off from paved areas can be directed back onto the landscape to water trees, shrubs and flower beds;
- maintain your landscape and garden properly: keep irrigation systems running properly. Avoid the lush, thirsty plant growth that results from over-fertilising.
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