Water-Saving Landscape Ideas

Amend the Soil

• An important part of making a landscape able to tolerate limited water availability is good soil that will retain moisture and make it available to plants. Consider having the soil tested and amend it according to recommendations. Ensure that the soil has ample organic matter, which increases the amount of water a landscape can hold and make available to plants, by incorporating materials like compost or manure into the soil.

Plan the Landscape

• The first step to implementing a new water-efficient landscape is to create a plan that encompasses the types of plants desired, ideally grouped together based upon similar water needs, the amount of available water, topography and present structures. For example, areas near downspouts with little hot sun are suitable locations for plants with the highest water requirements can be grouped. Plan for dry zones, areas of heat and little water, where drought-tolerant plants can thrive. Wind and shelter or shade from structures should also influence plans.

Harvest Water

• Efficient water collecting, or harvesting and directing or channeling can reduce the amount and frequency of irrigation needed. Rain barrels collect water from downspouts for later rationing. Landscape features like french drains or rain gardens can also be used to retain or channel water. Natural topography can also be accounted for, with water being allowed to drain to low areas where plants with higher water requirements may be situated.

Choose Plants Wisely

• Landscape with plants that are well-suited to the area climate. Many extensions or local botanical gardens maintain a collection or list of suggested water-efficient plants for the area. No matter the plant, it will require sufficient water throughout the first year to become established. Even certain turf species are able to tolerate less water than others, so choose grass species carefully.

Irrigation Timing and Methods

• When and how a landscape is irrigated can greatly influence the amount of water needed to maintain healthy plants or turf. Watering during the early morning, evening or at night is much more efficient than watering during the daytime when water loss due to evaporation and wind can be quite significant. Using drip irrigation or watering by hand can also minimize water loss in comparison to a method such as sprinkler or overhead irrigation.

Mulch

• Annual mulching can significantly reduce water evaporation, keeps the soil and plant roots cool and reduces weed growth in addition to enhancing the landscape's aesthetics. Organic mulches like wood chips, hay or grass clippings, which eventually decompose and improve the soil, can be applied over four inches deep around trees and shrubs. Mulch can also consist of inorganic materials like rock or gravel, which should be applied only about two inches deep.

Maintenance

• Proper maintenance will also help limit water requirements. Weed the garden or landscape regularly and use proper pruning techniques. Mulch and add organic matter regularly.