Water-Saving Gardening Tips + Flowers That Don’t Need Much

Gardens boost the appeal of your home, and gardening is good for your overall well-being. Maintaining them, however, requires a lot of water.

Canada is one of the largest per capita users of freshwater in the world, with an average of 223 liters of water per day. To put this alarming number into perspective, the researchers at Water Governance say that the amount of freshwater needed for human survival (including drinking, food preparation, sanitation, and bathing needs) is between 60-80 liters per day.

With a few simple changes, you can cut down on your water usage to help reduce the risk of drought orders and water restrictions, save money on your water bill, and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Here are 10 ways you can conserve water while maintaining your garden this summer:

1) Water In The A.M.

Get the most out of your precious water by dispersing it on your lawn and gardens in the morning. Since the sun won’t be high in the sky until the afternoon, the water will have time to reach the roots before evaporating from the mid-day heat.

2) Ensure Soil Is Healthy

The health of the soil will impact how much you need to water. Soil that has high organic carbon should have better water retention so be sure to add compost to your garden regularly.

3) Let The Rain Do The Work

People often use sprinklers on timers to keep lawns and gardens green which can lead to over-watering. If precipitation is in the forecast, be sure to adjust your watering schedule and let the rain help when you can.

4) Let Your Lawn Grow Longer

Taller grass holds more moisture because it shades and protects the soil better. Adjust your lawn mower height so it doesn’t cut your grass too short.

5) Make Use Of Grey Water

Whether collected from showers, baths, or cooking, greywater is a great way to add moisture to your gardens and lawns without having to use a hose or sprinkler. Avoid anything containing bleach, disinfectants, or strong cleaners.

6) Use A Rain Barrel

Rain barrels are an aesthetically pleasing way to collect rainwater while adding a touch of décor to your home. With a wide range of sizes and styles available, you could even choose one with a planter inside to add even more green beauty to your home.

7) Add Some Mulch

Great for locking in moisture, mulch can be added to flower beds and around shrubs so you don’t have to water as often. In fact, according to this article from Denver Post, using mulch can cut water usage by 25-50 percent!

8) Native Species

Incorporating native species plants into your garden is one of the best things you can do for the environment. Not only do they prevent the introduction of invasive plants while providing a natural habitat for endangered bees and butterflies, but they’re also incredibly low maintenance. They require little or no water beyond what nature provides!

9) Adjust Your Sprinklers

Sprinklers that send heavy drops of water close to the ground are best. Smaller drops and mist may evaporate in the heat. Watch the directional pattern of your sprinklers to ensure only your garden are lawn is watered and water isn’t wasted on walkways and the side of your home.

10) Only Water When Necessary

Did you know that more plants die from over-watering than from under-watering? Learn the signs of overwatering and know which plants can tolerate some dryness so you can water those less often.

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5 Flowers That Don’t Need Much Water

If you want to make your garden even healthier and eco-friendly, here’s a list of 5 beautiful flowers that don’t require much moisture beyond what nature provides. This list is also perfect for beginner gardeners or those who don’t have much of a green thumb but still want to benefit from the beauty of fresh flowers.

• Calendula
• Oriental poppy
• Purple coneflower
• Lilac
• Rose of Sharon