Wise Water Saving Tips
For Lawns & Gardens
In Colorado
The summer heat is beginning to set in, even with these bursts of cooler weather. To top that off, we’re also hearing the word “drought” creeping into the news. Without adequate moisture in the mountains and springtime rains, our gardens will have to adapt to the dry Colorado weather. Here are some Wise Tips to keep your gardens green, happy, and flourishing!
Regulate Watering
Do you have a timer on your watering system? Or do you put out the sprinkler on a hose? Either way, make sure to regulate how long you water your lawn & gardens. Set a timer on your phone if you don’t have an automated sprinkler system. Remember to always water in the evening or at night, when the sun’s heat won’t steal away the moisture. Watering early in the morning is ok, but still not as efficient as in the evening or at night. As we approach the peak summer months, pay attention to your local city and county ordinances. There may be further restrictions to watering times.
Drip Systems
To avoid excessive water use and the theft of moisture by the sun, drip irrigation systems help focus watering on specific plants. Vegetable gardens and flower beds, as well as outdoor potted plants, can benefit greatly from a timed drip system. Then, even on the hottest of days, you can maintain healthy, vibrant plants.
Native Plants
If you’re really worried about water consumption, consider replacing your current landscaping with one focused on plants native to Colorado. Consider pants like the Leadplant, Chocolate Flower (which is yellow), Prairie Sage, Blue Flax, and Evening Primrose for a nice variety of colorful flowers. For an extensive review of local and native plants for landscaping, check out this great article.
Xeriscaping
One option to truly minimize the amount of water used in your lawn and garden would be to xeriscape your property. Once established, this type of landscaping reduces your watering needs and costs to almost nothing! This relies heavily on local and native plants to the area, drought tolerant and resistant plants, and the removal of almost all the grass on your property.
Hopefully these tips will help you keep your gardens green, flowers happy, and vegetables producing. Don’t let the curb appeal of your home diminish just because there’s a drought. Be creative with your water use and the plants you put around the house. Do you have some water saving tips to share with us? Comment below and let us know your Wise Tips for summer gardens!
