Top 10 Ways to Conserve Water

Water is vital to the life of your garden and yard, yet gardeners often waste this precious resource. Whether your area is suffering from a drought or not, follow these guidelines to cut down on water usage:

1. Deep Watering

Water deeply, making sure to soak the root zone rather than the whole yard.

Read More: How long should you leave the hose on?

Photo: (cc) Beth Harper/Flickr

2.

When landscaping, choose native plants that require little or no water beyond what nature provides.

Photo: Christa Neu

More: Native Plants for Vour Region

3. Groundcover

Plant groundcovers and shade trees to help keep your yard cool.

Photo: Rob Cardillo

4. Mulch

Mulch your garden regularly to lock in soil moisture.

Extra: The Best Mulch Material

Photo: Rob Cardillo

5. Drip Irrigation

Use watering methods such as drip irrigation or soaker hoses to reduce evaporation by directing water to plant roots.

Extra: Beginner's Guide to Drip Irrigation

Photo: Christa Neu

6.

Closely space plants in your raised vegetable garden, so there is less area to water (make sure to provide enough room for root development).

Photo: Christa Neu

7.

Follow the principles of xeriscaping, a water-saving garden design method used by many gardeners in more arid climates.

Photo: (cc) Aka Hige/Flickr

8. Build a Deck

Limit the size of your lawn by adding a deck, patio, or walkway, which also adds backyard enjoyment.

Photo: Rodale

9. Rain Barrel

Connect a rain barrel to a gutter on your home to create a ready source of water for your plants.

Extra: Recommended Rain Barrels

Photo: (cc) Arlington County/Flickr

10. Recycle, Recycle, Recycle

Recycle household water from drinking glasses and steaming or cooking vegetables and pasta to water plants.

Keep Reading:
Smart techniques to conserve water without leaving your garden thirsty.

Photo: Punchstock