Gardening

Being waterwise

Apr 03 11:53am

There are many simple ways to save water in the garden. Top of the list is mulching. But here are several more water-saving ideas for you to try this summer.

Water-saving products
Use a liquid soil wetter everywhere – in pots, gardens and on lawns. These products help moisture penetrate the soil, overcoming the problem of water-repellent soil. They are available as concentrates or hose-ons.

Sprinkle a granulated soil wetter around. When water is applied it will release a soil-wetting agent, aiding penetration.

Add water crystals before you plant anything. Soak crystals in water first until they swell, then blend a small handful into the hole.

Love your soil
Healthy soil holds water, so feed the soil, and not just the plants. Adding compost or
rotted manure will help keep your soil healthy.

Fluff it up – soil can become compacted, particularly in high-traffic areas, which hinders water penetration. Use a garden fork to gently turn and aerate the soil.

Water wisely
Water in the evening, not the morning or heat of the day, so the water has longer to soak in and recharges plants for the day ahead.

4 Comments Report Abuse

1. smiling_sue2003 - Apr 07 09:18pm

Watering Wisely is a good idea.. But Melbournes water restrictions indicate we can only water between 6 am and 8 am twice a week on our designated days...Makes soaking up impossible... Also some days when they need water you cant .... Can someone from BHG please let the Vic government know????

2. birrell.tamara@ymail.com - May 24 11:27am

There are some great things you can do to save water for plants. One I find particularly good is filling a bottle or jug with the water you run while you wait for it to heat up(like when you do the dishes). A bucket in the shower catches a bit while the water heats up.

3. gerberry2000 - Jul 19 02:28pm

With the lifting of some of the water restrictions in Sydney, I still reckon that if one is using a sprinkler then it should be attached to a 'Tap Timer". So many put the sprinker on then forget about it and it is still going the next day.
Regards

4. jules27au - Sep 07 02:50pm

I use the water I collect from my shower that goes straight into the washing machine, it also helps me keep track of the time I spend in the shower - when the bucket is 1/2 full - that's four minutes.. My fish tank water changes (and sometimes the odd fish) also ends up on my garden.