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Water-conserving, Money-saving
Tips for Summer Gardens
(ARA) - Summer 2009 may be a
bit less dry than last year in some areas of the country, according
to the National Weather Service's Seasonal Drought Outlook. But
it still makes sense, both environmentally and economically,
to conserve water as much as possible in your gardening and landscaping
efforts.
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"Nothing shouts 'green'
quite like a thriving garden or a lush landscape," says
Susan Thayer, an irrigation and water conservation expert, ".
. . except, perhaps, a beautiful yard or garden that's been nurtured
with green practices that conserve precious water."
While drought in some mid-northern
areas is expected to improve, dry conditions will likely persist
in areas such as California, Texas, Florida and North Carolina,
according the Seasonal Drought Outlook map. One thing that isn't
likely to change anytime soon, however, is the need to cut costs
and conserve resources during an economic recession.
Conserving water makes sense environmentally, and can also help
your family reduce your water utility bill this summer.
It is possible to grow a thriving
garden and nurture a lovely landscape while minimizing water
consumption and saving money on your water bill. A combination
of native-friendly plants, smart agricultural practices, alternative
water sources and efficient irrigation can help keep gardens
and lawns growing healthy throughout dry summer months.
Here are some tips for conserving
water and saving money by reducing your water bill in your corner
of planet. |
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* Choose drought-resistant native
plants for your landscaping needs. Your options won't be limited
to cactus, either. From ornamental grasses to shrub roses, many
drought-tolerant native species also offer bright color and visual
appeal. Look for plants that do well in the driest conditions
found in your geographic region. Your local Cooperative Extension
office can help you identify plants that are right for your area.
You'll also find plenty of ideas online at sites like www.gardeners.com.
* Groom soil for optimum water
absorption and retention. The U.S. Department of Agriculture's
Natural Resources Conservation Service recommends adding water-retaining
organic material to your soil. You can also reduce evaporation
by using mulch in landscaping beds.
* Look for alternative water
sources other than the outdoor tap - such as collecting the water
that drains from your air conditioner. Consider collecting roof
runoff in a rain barrel for use in flower beds and vegetable
gardens.
* Irrigate efficiently with low-volume
irrigation systems and smart watering practices. Many communities
now require all newly built homes to use low-volume irrigation
in their landscapes. On average, micro sprinklers and drip irrigation
uses 80 to 90 percent less water than traditional irrigation
systems.
Irrigation manufacturers like
Mister Landscaper are responding to increased consumer demand
for low-volume systems by offering micro sprinkler and drip products
that homeowners can easily install on their own. Mister Landscaper's
Micro Sprinkler Starter Kits efficiently and slowly irrigate
flower and vegetable gardens, as well as areas where trees and
shrubs grow. They are available in the plumbing department at
Lowe's Home Improvement stores or online at www.misterlandscaper.com.
The system also offers a variety of retrofit products that allow
you to replace or add on to an existing underground pvc sprinkler
system so you can convert 120 gallons per hour (gph) heads to
a 10 gph micro spray or 1-2gph dripper.
"The key is to apply water
only exactly when and where it is needed," Thayer says.
Drip and micro spray irrigation provide optimum efficiency with
minimum waste and over spray.
* Design your landscaping to
minimize evaporation. Windbreaks and fences slow the movement
of the wind over the ground and the evaporation it causes, according
to the Natural Resources Conservation Service.
To learn more about low-volume
irrigation, visit www.misterlandscaper.com. For more information
on water conservation, go to www.nrcs.usda.gov. |
