Water conservation is an increasingly important issue, especially as we are facing water restrictions in most parts of the country. A garden can be a significant consumer of water, but with thoughtful practices, you can cultivate a beautiful, healthy landscape while reducing your water footprint.
Here are some practical clever watering and water-saving tips from GARDENA for gardeners who want to grow lush, thriving plants without wasting resources.
1. Water at the right time
Timing is crucial when it comes to irrigating your garden. Watering in the early morning or late evening reduces evaporation, allowing plants to absorb moisture before the sun’s heat dries it out. Avoid watering during the hottest parts of the day, as much of the water will evaporate before it reaches the roots. Watering early also helps prevent diseases that can develop from prolonged moisture on leaves.
The GARDENA range of water controls schedules irrigation and can be set to suit your lifestyle. Choose from morning or evenings, choose days of the week or time of the day, the GARDENA water controls will take full control of your irrigation needs.
Do you know about the Soil moisture Sensor?
Cleverly designed soil moisture sensor by GARDENA can significantly reduce water wastage. The sensor measures the actual moisture level in the soil, and will control the water timers by watering only when necessary. This also takes away the guesswork on whether the ground has sufficient water for your plants. When the Soil moisture sensor is install together with the GARDENA water control, it will switch off the water timer if there is sufficient water in the soil. This is particularly important as we face water restrictions in certain areas.
2. Measure water consumption around the home and garden
Do we really know how much of water is used around our garden and home. This is really a difficult ask unless you have a water measuring device.
The Water Meter AquaCount from GARDENA is the perfect tool to measure your own water consumption and to save water sustainably. This device can be connected either to the tap or directly to the end of the hose in a horizontal or vertical position. This handy product has a 4-in-1 function which allows you to calculate water consumption per day, per season, per irrigation cycle or view the flow rate in litres per minute.
3. Choose drought-resistant plants
One of the most effective ways to save water in the garden is by selecting drought-tolerant plants that require less water. Native species are often the best choice since they are naturally adapted to your local climate and soil conditions. Other options include succulents, lavender, sage, and ornamental grasses. These plants are resilient in dry conditions and can add beauty to your garden while minimising water usage.
4. Group plants by water needs
Organising plants based on their water requirements helps ensure efficient watering. By creating ‘hydrozones,’ where plants with similar water needs are grouped together, you can avoid overwatering those that don’t need it and ensure thirsty plants get enough moisture. This strategy reduces waste and promotes healthier plant growth.
5. Install drip irrigation systems
Micro Drip irrigation is an efficient way to deliver water directly to plant roots, minimising water loss through evaporation and runoff. Micro Drip systems offers irrigation of plant rows and flower beds with pin point accuracy. Drip irrigation can be automated, making it a convenient option for consistent, controlled watering.
The GARDENA Micro-Drip-System kits are designed for flower pot or planter pots, giving you the option to extend up to 15 flower pots. Use a GARDENA Water control to automate the irrigation using the Micro-Drip-Kits.
6. Harvest rainwater
Collecting rainwater is a natural and sustainable way to irrigate your garden. Installing a rain barrel under your gutter downspouts can capture runoff from roofs, which can then be used to water plants during dry spells. Rainwater is free from the salts and chemicals found in tap water, making it healthier for your plants.
The GARDENA Rainwater Pump will transport water from the barrel to any watering device whether you require water in your garden or in your home.
7. Practice deep, infrequent watering
Instead of watering lightly and frequently, practice deep, infrequent watering to encourage plants to develop deeper root systems. Plants with deep roots are better equipped to access moisture stored deeper in the soil and are more drought-resistant. A good rule of thumb is to water until the soil is moist about 6 inches deep, and then wait until the top inch or two of soil is dry before watering again.
For this type of watering, we recommend using the GARDENA water computer with Bluetooth function. Control your irrigation from the comfort of your couch using the GARDENA App. Life could not be easier.
8. Recycle household water
You can further reduce water waste by recycling household “gray water” for your garden. This includes water from washing dishes, rinsing fruits and vegetables, or even shower water (as long as it’s free from harmful chemicals). Gray water can be used to irrigate non-edible plants, reducing the demand for fresh water.
We recommend using the GARDENA Clear or Dirty Water pump to transport gray water to your garden.
9. Maintain your garden tools and irrigation systems
Regular maintenance of your garden tools and irrigation system is crucial for minimising water waste. Check hoses, sprinklers, and drip lines for leaks or clogs and fix any issues promptly. Even a small leak can waste a significant amount of water over time. Also, ensure sprinklers are positioned correctly to avoid watering driveways, sidewalks, or other non-plant areas.
The GARDENA combisystem Tool Flex can assist by keeping all your tools ready for use in a neat and tidy manner.
Water-saving practices in the garden not only contribute to environmental sustainability but can also save you money on water bills. By selecting drought-tolerant plants, watering wisely, and using tools like drip irrigation and rain barrels, you can enjoy a vibrant, water-efficient garden that thrives in harmony with nature. Start implementing these strategies today, and watch your garden flourish with less water and effort.
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Feature Image: Supplied
