Can landscaping choices impact water conservation?
Written by
Tina Carter
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.Strategic landscaping reduces outdoor water usage by 50%-70% compared with conventionally planted lawns, using techniques such as the selection of drought-resistant plants like lavender and olive trees, where little or no direct water is needed. The plants should be grouped in relation to their water needs, eliminating the possibility of overwatering those supplied with their required moisture. Mulch, used in extensive layers, will prevent necessary moisture in the soil from evaporating too quickly, providing the required moisture for plant life and creating beautiful landscapes, which is useful in conserving depleting water reserves.
Plant Selection
- Drought-tolerant species: Lavender, sage, olive trees, yucca
- Native plants: Adapted to local rainfall patterns
- Ground covers: Creeping thyme instead of grass
- Grouping: Cluster plants by water needs
Soil Preparation
- Compost amendment: Improves water retention
- Mulching: 3-inch layer reduces evaporation 50%
- Terracing: Prevents runoff on slopes
- Soil testing: Determines optimal amendments
Irrigation Systems
- Drip lines: Target roots directly
- Smart controllers: Adjust for weather conditions
- Zoning: Separate turf from plant beds
- Rain sensors: Prevent watering during rainfall
Maintenance
- Watering schedule: Early morning hours
- Seasonal adjustment: Reduce frequency in cooler months
- Weed control: Prevents competition for water
- Pruning: Promotes healthy growth patterns
Mulching technologies give the necessary savings in water. Place organic materials, such as iron chips, 3 inches thick, around plants. It reduces water evaporation to one-half and controls weeds. Gravel mulches are good in desert landscapes. Add mulch yearly, as it rots. Good mulching allows one to water less frequently and keep plants growing healthy.
To minimize water usage, install efficient irrigation systems, such as drip lines that deliver water directly to the plant's roots. If you have an irrigation system, use smart controllers that automatically adjust watering schedules based on weather data. Zone your landscape to separate thirsty plants from drought-tolerant areas. Incorporate rain sensors into your irrigation system. This will prevent watering when it is raining. All of these technologies will help to save every drop of water while significantly reducing waste.
Keep your landscape healthy and water-conscious. Water in early morning hours when evaporation rates are at their lowest. Adjust your watering regimes depending on the season, reducing frequency in cold months. Pruning correctly helps promote healthy growth and requires less water. Where acceptable, replace traditional turf with permeable hardscaping. These habits will promote long-term conservation success.
Combine all of these for maximum water savings. Start with drought-tolerant perennials and mulching. Then add drip irrigation and smart controls. The cumulative savings are 70 to 90 percent versus standard landscaping. You have spectacular, beautiful, sustainable outdoor areas that will conserve water effectively year after year.
Read the full article: 10 Practical Water Conservation Methods
