7 ways to save water for your garden

Photo via Canva

If you haven’t heard already, the government has plans to ban hosepipes in a bid to ‘conserve water’. 

Although we can’t really do anything about the ban, there are ways we can save some water to be able to water our garden. The methods I’ve listed are ones that are used in hot and dry countries (so we are able to implement them during the currently dry summer)

Photo via makeupthesadness.tumblr

Method 1: Collect water from your shower

In the time that you’re not actively using the water - like waiting for it to heat up or stepping back to shampoo your hair - use a bucket to collect the extra water. It shouldn’t have any soaps in it, but a little bit shouldn’t harm your plants.

Photo by

SuSanA Secretariat

Method 2: Use greywater for your plants

Greywater is simply used water. This could come from many sources:

• Pasta water (with no added seasonings)

• Water from washing rice

• Water left over in the kettle

• Water collected in your tumble dryer

I just chuck all the water into an old waterbutt and collect it when needed.

Photo via Canva

Method 3: Train your lawn to need less water

It is believed that if you water your grass less often, the roots will grow deeper and be able to find water deeper in the soil. Then you won’t have to water it as often ever again! Keeping it longer will also trap some moisture.

Photo by

The Spruce / Michele Lee

Method 4: Use mulch to trap moisture

A loose mulch (such as bark) over the soil surface can retain the moisture in the soil. It can also deter slugs and snails

Photo from celebrateurbanbirds

Method 5: Plant in containers

Container planting uses less water than in-ground because there is a smaller surface area, meaning less water is needed to fully soak the plant

Photo by Adamrobinsondesign

Method 6: Use water retaining crystals

You can choose from gel or crystals in your plant pot to hold more water. If you don't like the idea of adding man made polymers to your soil, then you can buy natural alternatives like this one made from seaweed.

Photo by Audreyslittlefarm

Method 7: Water when the plant is ‘thirsty’

I always do this for my succulents, but it does apply to any plant! Watering the plant deeper and less frequently will cut down your overall water use. Signs of thirst include; wilting, browning, and drooping

 

----> Thank you for taking the time to read my blog, Nate.