
- Place plants with similar water needs together for more efficient use of water
- Use plants that are native to the region. Once they are established, they will require little to no water.
- Apply a ground cover over planter beds, such as gravel or mulch to help retain water and help prevent water-consuming weeds from cropping up.
- Convert turf areas to synthetic lawn or gravel, or choose a grass type that requires less water. Buffalo or Bermuda grass need 20% less water than other species.
- Set irrigation watering times to early morning when it is cooler to prevent unnecessary water loss to evaporation.
- Install tree wells around the base of trees and apply mulch. These tips will help to keep the tree roots moist.
- Avoid excessive hardscaping. Too much hardscaping can encourage a heat island effect, raising the temperature of the property and thus, raising water needs for the vegetation.
- Keep your soil healthy. Soil with sufficient organic matter, structure, infiltration rate and adequate micronutrients will decrease watering needs.