• To help plants retain moisture, spread a layer of organic mulch around them. This will save water, time and money.
  • Your garden does not need to be watered daily. Check the soil moisture 2 to 3 inches below the surface, if the top 2 or 3 inches of soil are dry then it requires watering.
  • Use drip irrigation system for shrubs and trees so that water goes straight to the roots, preventing run-off.
  • Regularly check your sprinkler system valves for leaks.
  • Houses that use sprinklers consume 35% more water than houses that don’t.
  • Re-set the flow of your automatic sprinkler systems over the various seasons to suit the needs of plants and your lawn.
  • Put an automatic shut-off valve on the sprinkler system so that it shuts off when it rains.
  • Water your plants at short intervals to help it soak up the moisture.
  • Avoid growing plants in areas where it will be difficult to water them. Consider planting in spring, autumn or winter when requirement for watering is less.
  • Place moisture readers in your garden to determine which plants or areas need to be watered.
  • When watering your garden, use a kitchen timer to remind you when to stop.
  • Ask your local nursery about plant selection and placement; certain plants require less water than others.
  • Group plants that require similar amounts of water together, so that some plants are not over watered or others under watered.
  • Don’t cut off lower branches on trees and shrubs. Allow leaf litter to accumulate on the soil. This minimises evaporation and keeps the soil cooler.
  • Aerate the soil in your garden at least once a year so to help it retain moisture.
  • When mowing your lawn, don’t cut the grass shorter than 2.5 cm, so that it is protected from the blazing sun and reduces evaporation.
  • Water roots, not leaves.
  • Position sprinklers so that your lawn gets all the water, not your sidewalk, driveway or paved areas.
  • Compost your yard trimmings. It helps to retain moisture in the soil so you will not need to water as much.
  • Remove weeds or dead plants from your garden; they unnecessarily take up water.
  • You can use recycled sewage water to your lawn and plants. Call the municipality to obtain water for this use.
  • Consider using garden lights or spotlights that run on solar energy.
  • Water your garden in the morning or evening when temperatures are lower and help reduce evaporation. Recommended watering time is before 8am or after 6pm.