Saving water while you garden

How much and when to water

Before watering your garden, check the current water restrictions.

• Water early in the morning (before 9am) or late afternoon (after 4pm) rather than during the heat of the day when evaporation will cause water loss.
• Before watering, stick your finger in the soil to see if it is moist below the surface.
• Frequent, light watering encourages shallow roots, so aim to water less frequently but for longer.
• Check the weather forecast for rain the in the next few days, you may be able to avoid watering altogether if rain is expected. 
• Mulch your garden beds to reduce evaporation.
• Consider planting drought tolerant or plants native to our local area.
• Group plants with similar water needs together.
• Allow your lawn to grow slightly longer. This will encourage a deeper root system and reduce evaporation.

Check the Waterwise Garden Guide with plenty of local information on garden design, what to plant and how to water and maintain your garden.

There is also plenty of great local gardening information and 'how to tips' on the Our Living Coast website.

Irrigation 

• Use a drip irrigation system to deliver water slowly and deeply to the root zone.
• When using an irrigation system, it's always a great idea to install a time to reduce the risk of leaving the tap running.
• Consider installing wicking beds for your vegetable gardens.