|
Water-saving Secrets
for Gardeners and Lawn Lovers
(ARA) - "Think green; save
blue" will likely be the motto of environmentally aware
gardeners and lawn lovers across the country this summer as drought
conditions are expected to persist in many regions.
"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 blue water."
|
It is possible to grow a thriving
garden and nurture a lovely landscape while minimizing water
consumption. 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 in your corner of the great outdoors:
* 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 recycling clean
water used inside the house for cooking and other activities.
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. In summer 2007,
restrictions on lawn watering were widespread throughout the
country. Many communities now require all new built homes to
use low-volume irrigation in the 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. |
